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1. Ariana Grande completes tour and steps back from public life
Ariana Grande has concluded her Eternal Sunshine tour, which she described as “one last hurrah.” Following her successful run in the US and a 10-show residency at London’s O2 Arena, Grande plans to focus more on acting after her Oscar-nominated role in Wicked.
2. Uber shuts operations in Nigeria and Uganda with immediate effect
Uber has announced the immediate cessation of its operations in Nigeria and Uganda, following similar withdrawals from Ivory Coast and Tanzania over the past year. The company will continue to operate in Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa.
3. China threat bolsters support for EU industrial policy
Concerns over potential threats from China have intensified support for the EU’s industrial policy, particularly in sectors crucial to Europe’s economic future, such as electric vehicles and wind turbines. Industry officials warn that the next wave of challenges could be even more destructive.
4. Von der Leyen, Rutte say Russian ‘intimidation will not work’ to stop Ukraine aid
European leaders Ursula von der Leyen and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine, stating that Russian intimidation tactics will not succeed. Rutte condemned recent Russian actions as reckless and emphasized the unity of their support.
5. Costco hot dog combo now offers bottled water swap, dietitian weighs in
Costco has introduced a new option for its hot dog combo, allowing customers to swap soda for bottled water. This change has sparked discussions among shoppers about value and nutrition at the warehouse club’s food court.
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6. Russia’s use of jet-powered drones is significantly challenging Ukraine’s air defenses, prompting Kyiv to seek new strategies to counter the evolving threat. This development marks a crucial phase in the ongoing conflict, as both sides race to enhance their military capabilities.
7. Syria is positioning itself as a key player in the Middle East by offering alternative routes for oil transit, particularly in light of the ongoing blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. This strategic move could reshape regional trade dynamics and enhance Syria’s economic prospects amidst its ongoing challenges.
8. The European Union is preparing to invest billions in data centers, but not all member states are on board with the initiative. With plans to support selected projects with substantial funding, the EU aims to bolster its digital infrastructure, although some countries express reservations about the direction of this investment.
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French President Emmanuel Macron will be the first EU leader to meet new British Prime Minister Andy Burnham during a two-day visit to the UK that began Wednesday. Macron will inaugurate a historic exhibition of the 950-year-old Bayeux Tapestry, which is on loan to the British Museum in London.
In Japan, the BBC’s Tokyo correspondent Kurumi Mori explores the latest food trend of instant noodles made with cold water. This innovative snack has gone viral online and sold out across the country. Designed as a cooling summer treat, the BBC investigates whether this unique version of cup noodles lives up to its promise.
Turning to the weather. In Riga, 13 to 19 degrees with mist feels like. In London, 15 to 22 degrees with overcast feels like. In Paris, 17 to 27 degrees with overcast feels like. In Brussels, 14 to 22 degrees with overcast feels like. In Berlin, 14 to 23 degrees with overcast feels like. In Stockholm, 12 to 20 degrees with sunny feels like. In Madrid, 21 to 32 degrees with sunny feels like.
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