China urges US to handle Taiwan issue 'with utmost caution' amid ongoing cross-strait tensions

European CouncilCosta expects progress in Ukraine's EU accession talks during Ireland's EU presidency, speaking in Dublin with Zelensky present at the presidency opening ceremony.

European CouncilAntonio Costa expects significant progress in EU accession negotiations with candidate countries, including Ukraine, during Ireland's EU Council presidency. Speaking in Dublin at the opening ceremony of Ireland's presidency, which runs from July 1 to December 31, Costa said the recent official opening of accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova shows enlargement is Europe's best investment in peace and security. Ukrainian Volodymyr Zelensky also attended the ceremony.

US NATO ambassador warns some allies lagging on defense spending, says Trump expects all members to step up immediately and commit to 5% GDP target

The US NATO ambassador stated that some allies are lagging behind, not spending enough or lacking a credible path, and that Trump fully expects all allies to step up immediately and get on a path to 5% defense spending.

Trump says denuclearization of Iran is moving along well, citing progress in ongoing diplomatic efforts to curb Tehran's nuclear program.

Trump says denuclearization of Iran is moving along well.

German Chancellor Merz: NATO allies to discuss Middle East developments and US-Iran peace efforts at Ankara summit, also focusing on Ukraine support and keeping Strait of Hormuz open

NATO allies will discuss Middle East developments and US-Iran peace efforts at an Ankara summit, German Chancellor Merz says, with leaders also focusing on transatlantic cooperation, support for Ukraine, ending Iran's nuclear program, and keeping the Strait of Hormuz open.