About this Episode
A heatwave is sweeping across much of western Europe on the summer solstice, with high temperatures expected to persist into the following week. In France, authorities have banned alcohol consumption at the Fête de la Musique in Paris, where temperatures may reach 35°C. Local officials in Paris exceptionally allow swimming in Canal Saint-Martin and extended park opening hours to provide cooling options for residents and tourists. Over 30 French departments are under a red heat warning. Alerts are also in place across regions in Spain, Switzerland, Germany, and the UK.
Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon have resulted in 16 deaths and 12 injuries, as reported by the Lebanese civil defense agency. The attacks occurred in Nabatieh shortly after midnight and continued in other towns throughout the morning, despite a recently agreed ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. The strikes targeted multiple sites, including rocket launch positions and command centers, following claims that Hezbollah had launched over 50 attacks on Israeli forces. The situation remains tense, with Israeli officials advocating for a tough military response and threatening to escalate military action further. This violence comes at a critical time, as US mediators are striving to stabilize negotiations involving Iran and the ongoing conflicts in the region.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has issued a one-week ultimatum to Belarusian leader Aliaksandr Lukashenka to dismantle relay equipment along the border, which Zelenskyy claims is being used to guide Russian drone attacks. He stated that daily civilian casualties are occurring due to these operations. If the equipment is not removed, Ukraine is prepared to take action against it. The warning follows a recent escalation in violence, including Russian strikes that have killed several people and damaged significant landmarks like Kyiv’s Dormition Cathedral. Additionally, Zelenskyy expressed hopes for a positive response from the U.S. regarding licenses for Ukraine to manufacture anti-ballistic air defense systems, which he believes would enhance Ukraine’s military capabilities and support its allies.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has won re-election, with his party retaining a strong parliamentary majority amidst escalating internal tensions and the potential for renewed conflict. Following a contentious election process, the victory comes as the country grapples with ongoing challenges related to its past civil war with the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and broader geopolitical issues. While Abiy’s government has been credited with initially working towards peace, the resurgence of violence and accusations of forced military recruitment by the TPLF have heightened fears of a return to hostilities. Observers raised concerns that the situation could deteriorate and impact stability in the region.
