Stories from Washington D.C. · United States

The Environmental Protection Agency is adding microplastics and pharmaceuticals to its Contaminant Candidate List for the first time. The announcement was made alongside HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. The move is part of the President's fiscal year 2027 budget proposal.

Britain's ambassador to Washington has sparked controversy after claiming the United Kingdom is no longer the closest ally of the United States. The comments have been described as a bombshell that risks souring the upcoming state visit by King Charles.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated that the Section 702 surveillance tool will go dark at midnight on Thursday without an extension. Oregon Democratic Senator Ron Wyden warned on the Senate floor that attempts to pass the bill without reforms will fail.

The US Army plans to purchase more than 800 interceptors in the next fiscal year. This move follows the depletion of existing stockpiles during the conflict with Iran. Pentagon budget documents reviewed by RIA Novosti indicate the procurement is intended to prevent critical shortages of high-precision missiles in future large-scale confrontations. A Center for Strategic and International Studies report published Tuesday warned of potential high-precision missile shortages in future large-scale conflicts.

US military deployment and concentration in the Middle East has reached its highest level since the Iraq War, according to a report from Beijing. The price of whiting hake has increased by 60% in one year, rising from 5 euros per kilo to 15 euros per kilo. The price surge is attributed to rising fuel costs and product scarcity. This trend is impacting fish displays in France. The price increase is impacting the ability of citizens to purchase essential agricultural supplies. Fertilizer prices in India have increased by more than 60 percent compared to pre-war levels. Vijay Krishna, Secretary General of the All Indian Farmers Union, stated that a fertilizer shortage is expected to cause a fall in production following the June sowing season for rice, cotton, and soybean.

The British ambassador to Washington made leaked remarks suggesting the US-Israel special relationship is under pressure. The ambassador noted that the relationship between the US and Israel is likely being questioned.

Two men sustained non-life-threatening gunshot wounds in an apartment building courtyard on N Street in southwest Washington, D.C. Police are asking the public for images or information regarding the gunfire, which occurred without an apparent motive. The child is expected to be okay, according to the report. The National Police Department has provided a tip line for witnesses to contact. Montgomery County counsel has unanimously passed information regarding the shooting. Two adult males suffering from non-life-threatening gunshot wounds were located by officers in a courtyard along End Street in the Tuckston Circle area of Washington DC. A five-year-old child was also shot and was transported from the scene by a parent. Officers later located the child at a local hospital.

WTOP is set to fire John Wardock following comments made on his late-night show last week regarding Melania Trump. The station is reportedly reviewing its licenses in relation to the incident.

The Hill reports a consensus has formed among hardline conservatives regarding legislation to reauthorize foreign spy powers under FISA Section 702. A long-term solution of three or more years remains difficult due to the inability to assemble a coalition. The provision within the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act allows agencies to collect communications. Lawmakers are continuing to work toward a long-term deal regarding the program. This extension comes ahead of the program's expiration tonight. The current extension was a temporary 10-day measure while a long-term agreement is being negotiated in both chambers. US Congress implemented a last-minute political maneuver to extend Section 702 surveillance authority for 45 days. The move comes amid political backlash regarding privacy concerns.

Meiad Maleki, former head of the sanctions office at the US Treasury Department, discussed how banking networks use Syrian and shell companies to bypass US sanctions. The discussion addressed the impact of these financial maneuvers on international trade.