Extreme Heat Will Continue to Intensify in UK and Europe | BBC News

Jun 20, 2026 | The Met Office has issued an amber extreme heat warning for parts of southern and eastern England and south Wales. The warning is valid for Monday and Tuesday and warns of temperatures peaking at 35C (95F). The nights will also be hot, remaining above 20C in some locations.

It brings the risk of impacts to health, especially for vulnerable people, and the danger of sunburn and heat exhaustion in the wider population.

This is only the sixth amber extreme heat warning that has been issued by the Met Office since they were introduced in 2021 - and the first since August 2022.

Heat has also been building across Europe this week and will continue to intensify over the next few days.


À LIRE AUSSI :

Jusqu’à 43 °C attendus lundi : suivez en cartes l’évolution de la vague de chaleur : Une intense vague de chaleur s’est installée sur la France, avec des températures pouvant dépasser localement les normales de saison de près de 18 °C. Tour d’horizon des prévisions. »

The Tech Billionaire Plan to Destroy Democracy | Gil Duran | TMR

Jun 20, 2026 | Gil Duran, publisher of the Nerd Reich newsletter, joins to discuss John O’Farrell a former partner at Andreessen Horowitz who recently quit the VC firm over their prioritizing of AI hype over the common good. You can preorder Gil’s book “The Nerd Reich: Silicon Valley’s Fascism and the War on Democracy” here.

People like Peter Thiel may WANT to live forever, but even though I am no doctor, I can assure him that he will not. Just look at how much and how quickly Peter Thiel has aged in just a few years! Peter Thiel and people like him are living in a land of make-believe. They are totally and utterly delusional. — © Mark Alexander

What We Know about Billionaire Peter Thiel’s Secret 'Dialog’ Society

Jun 18, 2026 | A leak of private information purportedly related to an ultra-secret society called “Dialog” founded by PayPal billionaire Peter Thiel has revealed the inner workings of an elite group to which hundreds of global leaders, business executives and billionaires belong.

Read the full story on Forbes here »

Here we go again! First, we had the Epstein secret society; now, it’s Peter Thiel’s. I hope these people behave themselves better than the Epstein clan did; but I wouldn’t hold my breath if I were you! One way or the other, it looks as if democracy has bitten the dust! From now on, to be anyone and to have any influence, you will have to be a multi-billionaire — at least! — © Mark Alexander

Geschenk aus Katar: Trump präsentiert neue Air Force One – „fliegendes Weißes Haus“

BERLINER ZEITUNG: US-Präsident Trump enthüllt das neue Präsidentenflugzeug und bezeichnet es als „fliegendes Weißes Haus“. Das Geschenk aus Katar hatte auch für Kritik gesorgt.

Dieses Foto stammt aus diesem Artikel. | US-Präsident Donald Trump verlässt nach einem Rundgang das neu ausgewiesene Präsidentenflugzeug „Air Force One“. | © Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP/dpa
US-Präsident Donald Trump hat die neue Präsidentenmaschine Air Force One präsentiert. Das Flugzeug vom Typ Boeing 747, ein Geschenk aus Katar, soll laut New York Times die seit 1990 genutzten hellblauen Vorgänger ersetzen.

Bei einer Zeremonie auf dem Militärstützpunkt Joint Base Andrews bezeichnete Trump die Maschine als „fliegendes Weißes Haus“ mit einem Maß an Luxus, das es so noch nie gegeben habe. Die Lackierung in Rot, Weiß und Blau sei „die eleganteste Variante“, sagte er laut der Zeitung.

Trump kündigte an, das Flugzeug werde voraussichtlich an den Feierlichkeiten zum Unabhängigkeitstag am 4. Juli mit einem Überflug teilnehmen. Die Maschine soll laut New York Times eine Lücke bis zur Lieferung von zwei Boeing 747-8 Flugzeugen schließen, deren Lieferung sich verzögere. Es sei „sehr freundlich“ von Katar, das Flugzeug zur Verfügung zu stellen, sagte Trump laut New York Times. » | Anika Schlünz | Samstag, 20. Juni 2026

Was für ein billiger Kerl Trump doch ist! Für Profit und Gewinn tut er alles. Der Mann kennt weder Scham noch Stolz. Hätte sich die USA nicht ein eigenes „fliegendes Weißes Haus“ leisten können? Bei all den Milliarden, die die USA in diesem verlorenen Krieg gegen den Iran verschwendet haben, hätten sie sich sicherlich ein eigenes Flugzeug kaufen können. So hat Trump Amerika billig aussehen lassen, wie eine billige Prostituierte!

Dieses Geschenk Katars hat seinen Preis: eine enorme Verschuldung. Katar wird dafür große Gegenleistungen erwarten. Nichts ist umsonst!

Trumps Präsidentschaft hat Amerika in neue Tiefpunkte geführt. — © Mark Alexander

Shura Cherkassky: 12 Études, Op. 25: No. 1 in A-Flat Major "Aeolian Harp"

Aug 1, 2019 | Provided to YouTube by NAXOS of America


WIKIPEDIA: Shura Cherkassky »

HAUSER : The Swan | Reupload

Jan 23, 2026 | HAUSER performing “The Swan” from The Carnival of the Animals by Camille Saint-Saëns with the London Symphony Orchestra

HAUSER : Nocturne in C Sharp Minor

May 11, 2020 | HAUSER performing Nocturne in C sharp minor by Frédéric Chopin with London Symphony Orchestra | Filmed by Medvid Production

Trump Humiliates Netanyahu. Tucker Reacts.

Jun 19, 2026 | Tucker on Trump’s split from Netanyahu.

Italy Doesn’t ‘Beg,’ Giorgia Meloni Tells Trump

THE NEW YORK TIMES: President Trump said the Italian leader had “begged” him to take a photo together at the Group of 7 summit in France. The remarks come as their once-friendly relationship has frayed.

It looks as if the Italian prime minister’s teetering relationship with President Trump may have just fallen off a cliff.

For weeks, tensions have been rising. Mr. Trump has grown publicly frustrated with Giorgia Meloni, the right-leaning Italian prime minister, who had been one of his closest political friends on the international stage, for failing to support the war in Iran and for criticizing his broadside against Pope Leo XIV. On Friday, she seemed to have had enough.

After the president told an Italian journalist on Thursday that Ms. Meloni had “begged” him to take a photo together at the Group of 7 summit meeting in France this week, according to an English-language transcript shared by the TV reporter, Ms. Meloni called Mr. Trump’s statements “totally invented.”

“Italy and I never beg,” she proclaimed in a video posted on social media.

Ms. Meloni, who took office in 2022, had cast herself as the European leader who had the best relationship with the American president. Even as relations have deteriorated, she has tried to smooth over ruffled feathers. » | Motoko Rich and Josephine de La Bruyère | Reporting from Rome | Friday, June 19, 2026

Entre l’Iran et les États-Unis, un accord qui bat déjà de l’aile

Cette capture d'écran provient de cet article du Figaro. | «Trump est le seul chef d’État au monde à être favorable à la nation d’Israël à l’heure actuelle », a déclaré le vice-président américain, JD Vance, jeudi (ici, à Washington). Eric Lee / REUTERS
LE FIGARO : La cérémonie de signature prévue en Suisse vendredi a été annulée par les Iraniens, qui utilisent déjà le détroit d’Ormuz pour obliger Trump à faire pression sur les Israéliens pour qu’ils se retirent du Sud-Liban.

Les premières fissures dans l’accord irano-américain sont apparues avant même la signature officielle. La reprise des combats au Liban entre Israël et le Hezbollah a servi de prétexte à l’Iran pour annuler sa participation à la rencontre prévue vendredi en Suisse, et fermer de nouveau le détroit d’Ormuz. Le vice-président américain, JD Vance, qui devait représenter les États-Unis lors de la cérémonie à Bürgenstock, au-dessus du lac de Lucerne, a renoncé à son déplacement. Les Iraniens ont dénoncé la riposte israélienne à des attaques du Hezbollah contre ses forces au Sud-Liban comme une violation du protocole d’accord. Ils ont montré qu’ils étaient prêts à utiliser de nouveau le détroit d’Ormuz comme moyen de pression.

« Étant donné que le retrait d’Israël du Liban , la levée totale du blocus naval et le retrait des forces terroristes américaines du golfe Persique et de la région figurent parmi les principales conditions de l’accord entre l’Iran et les États-Unis, le détroit d’Ormuz restera fermé jusqu’à ce que ces conditions soient remplies », ont annoncé les gardiens de la révolution dans un message diffusé par radio maritime. » | Par Adrien Jaulmes, correspondant à Washington | vendredi 19 juin 2026

Réservé aux abonnés

Michael Lambert: Britain's 7th Prime Minister In 10 Years — Can Burnham Succeed Where All Others Failed?

Jun 19, 2026 | Britain is about to get its 7th Prime Minister in just ten years. Cameron ran away. May triggered Article 50 too early and locked us out of the Single Market. Johnson's charm couldn't hide the lies. Truss crashed the economy in 49 days. Sunak did his best on a sinking ship. And Starmer — a ditherer, lacking charisma, with lamentable judgement from day one. Now Andy Burnham waits in the wings — and the question is whether he will be any different.

In this video I look at why every Prime Minister since 2015 has failed the British people, what they all had in common, and why the answer, as it always has been, comes back to Brexit.

Burnham has charm, real experience and the communication skills his predecessor so sorely lacked. But his success depends on two things: a credible plan to grow the economy through investment and productivity — and, most importantly of all, the courage to declare that Britain will begin the process of rejoining the European Union. If he fails to do that, he will join a very long and undistinguished queue.

With a new Prime Minister change, the UK faces its seventh leader in ten years. I analyze if this transition can actually improve government effectiveness.

This video examines the rapid turnover in political leadership that has defined the last decade of British politics. We trace the timeline back to the referendum held nearly ten years ago to understand why the country has cycled through so many heads of state in such a short window. It is essential context for anyone trying to make sense of the current political climate.

Beyond just the numbers, I provide my perspective on whether this latest Prime Minister change offers a genuine path toward stability. We break down the challenges facing the new administration and evaluate the potential for different outcomes compared to previous leaders.

By the end of this analysis, you will have a clearer view of the structural issues impacting political leadership and what effectiveness might actually look like in this new term.


A fine assessment of the situation which no sensible person could argue with. Like Michael Lambert, I am very keen for Brexit to be reversed at the very earliest convenience. Brexit has been a very big negative influence on this country's economy, and it has robbed us Britons of many European rights.as well. It has brought us no discernible benefits.

How just a few troublemakers can turn the fortunes of a nation around. The gift of the gab in the wrong person with the wrong ideas can be fatal! — © Mark Alexander

Andrew: A Royal Shame | Full Film

Premiered June 17, 2026 | Once celebrated as a war hero, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's dramatic fall from grace ignites a deeper question: are the powerful held to the same standards as everyone else? Through expert voices and public opinion, this documentary explores privilege, scandal and the modern monarchy's struggle to maintain trust in an age of scrutiny.

Today, We Have Reached Over Ten Million Visitors

MARK ALEXABDER: I have just checked my Google visitor counter and, to my great delight, I found that we have reached 10,010,056 visitors to this blog.

This is great news for me, and for it, I would like to thank you all for your continued support and loyalty. This couldn’t have been achieved without YOU. Thank you so much. Your loyalty and support is greatly appreciated. Actually, more than words can easily express.

Naturally, I shall look forward to achieving the next landmark.

Kind regards to you all,
Mark

Inside Elon Musk's Empire | BBC Americast

The US economy backs Elon Musk’s vision for sending people to Mars, the moon and beyond with SpaceX. Elon Musk’s rocket, telecommunications and artificial intelligence company SpaceX has listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange with a value of $2.2 trillion; making him the world’s first trillionaire in the process.

Other AI companies, including Open AI and Anthropic have plans to follow suit but what does that mean for the US economy and global financial stability?

In this episode, Justin speaks to Ryan Mac - an investigative technology reporter for the New York Times who has extensive experience covering Elon Musk and other leaders in the AI field.

SpaceX’s public valuation has made millionaires of many of its past and current employees and generated around $85 billion for the company; money that Elon Musk says is essential to fulfil the company’s plans to build bases on the Moon, put data centres into orbit and send human beings to Mars.

But what happens if those plans remain unfulfilled?

As more companies offer shares to investors and the general public, Justin and Ryan explore whether America is gambling on the promise of AI? And is the US economy becoming dangerously reliant on one industry?


Being generous of spirit, I hope Elon goes to Mars. I also hope that he stays there! 😊 — © Mark Alexander

Donald Trump Will Face Consequences | Steve Schmidt

Jun 19, 2026 | Pete Hegseth removed the portrait of an American hero, the first Black four-star general, Daniel "Chappie" James Jr., from the Pentagon. On this Juneteenth, Steve Schmidt breaks down the overwhelming resurgent racism of Trump's regime and why it must be rejected this November. …

Meloni Delights World Leaders by Revealing She Has Quit Smoking

THE TELEGRAPH: Italian PM kicks the habit months after warning she would ‘kill’ without cigarettes

When Giorgia Meloni told G7 leaders on Monday that she had given up smoking, their reactions ranged from delight to surprise.

At last year’s summit, the Italian prime minister had declared that she would probably kill someone if she had to quit tobacco.

But she broke the news that she had successfully kicked the habit in Évian-les-Bains, eastern France.

Ms Meloni is heard on video saying she had to “take some coffee” as fellow leaders chatted while they waited for Donald Trump, Emmanuel Macron and Volodymyr Zelensky to join them.

“This morning? To wake up?” asked Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission president. Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor, asked: “And a cigarette?”

“You stopped it. Bravo,” said Sanae Takaichi, Japan’s prime minister, a heavy smoker who has forged a close friendship with Ms Meloni, a political soulmate.

Mrs Von der Leyen, a medical doctor by training, declared: “Good.” » | James Crisp | Tuesday, June 16, 2026

People are like sheep!

Moreover, people these days make such a big deal about someone enjoying a humble cigarette! These days, you can get yourself tattooed all over the place. Ditto getting yourself pierced. Even cannabis and ketamine don't raise eyebrows. But for God's sake don't ask where you can smoke! People have truly become such bores! Childish really!

It's a pity Meloni has quit smoking. That was what made her particularly likeable and human. We'll see how long she'll last as a non-smoker. If she manages to stay smokefree, I hope to God she's not going to become another self-satisfied, self-righteous, anti-smoking bore! — © Mark Alexander

Starmer Facing Pressure from Ministers and Labour Grandees to Prepare for ‘Orderly Exit’

THE GUARDIAN: Prime minister said to be calling cabinet members but faces growing consensus that his time in Downing Street is over

Cabinet ministers and Labour grandees are to urge Keir Starmer not to fight a leadership challenge and to prepare for an “orderly exit,” the Guardian understands.

Andy Burnham, who won a compelling majority in the Makerfield byelection overnight, is expected to travel to London on Monday to meet MPs in the expectation of becoming prime minister within weeks.

One MP said they believed there were about 200 Labour MPs prepared – if necessary – to sign Burnham’s nomination papers for a challenge.

Starmer was said to be calling members of the cabinet on Friday afternoon to set out his determination to fight on. At least two, Ed Miliband and Shabana Mahmood, have previously suggested to the prime minister that he should set out a timetable for his departure. » | Jessica Elgot and Rowena Mason | Friday, June 19, 2026

Elon Musk: Wie gefährlich ist der erste Billionär der Welt? | Sandra Navidi

Kein anderer Tech-Gigant hat so viel Kapital, Macht und Einfluss wie Musk. Geht das für die Welt nach hinten los?

Der Börsengang von SpaceX hat Elon Musk zum ersten Billionär der Welt gemacht. Damit spielt der Tech-Titan in einer neuen Liga der individuellen Macht. Aber wie reich, mächtig und gefährlich ist Elon Musk wirklich? Darüber sprechen wir mit US-Expertin Sandra Navidi.

En frappant le Liban, Benyamin Netanyahou défie l’accord iranien de Donald Trump

Cette capture d'écran provient de cet article du Figaro. | Pour Benyamin Netanyahou, l’accord voulu par Donald Trump s’apparente à un désastre sécuritaire mais aussi politique Jonathan Ernst / REUTERS
LE FIGARO : DÉCRYPTAGE - Marginalisé par l’accord entre Washington et Téhéran, le premier ministre israélien tente de préserver son image de chef de guerre. Mais ce choix, largement soutenu par l’opinion israélienne, menace de devenir le principal point de friction avec la Maison-Blanche.

Le dossier libanais continue d’empoisonner l’accord américano-iranien. Les dernières frappes israéliennes sur le Liban du Sud ont conduit la délégation iranienne à annuler au dernier moment sa venue en Suisse pour signer le mémorandum d’entente entre les États-Unis et l’Iran, censé ouvrir soixante jours de négociations vers un accord plus durable.

Car si Benyamin Netanyahou a perdu la main sur le dossier iranien, le premier ministre israélien, en difficulté politique à quelques mois des élections, tente de la garder au Liban. Alors que Donald Trump veut transformer son accord avec Téhéran en victoire diplomatique, Benyamin Netanyahou défie son parrain américain en poursuivant ses bombardements contre le Hezbollah au Liban. Vendredi, les frappes israéliennes ont causé au moins 18 morts selon le ministère de la Santé libanais, tandis que quatre soldats israéliens ont été tués par le groupe armé chiite. Le premier ministre israélien a affirmé que ses troupes resteraient dans le sud du Liban « aussi longtemps que nécessaire. »

Depuis la signature du mémorandum d’entente, le front libanais concentre toutes les ambiguïtés du moment. Sur le papier, Washington veut obtenir une désescalade régionale : suspension des hostilités, relance du dialogue nucléaire, stabilisation des fronts liés à l’Iran – dont le Liban. Sur le terrain, Israël entend conserver une liberté d’action complète contre le Hezbollah, qu’il accuse de reconstruire ses capacités militaires au sud du Litani. » | Par Stanislas Poyet Correspondant à Jérusalem | vendredi 19 juin 2026

Réservé aux abonnés

Poulet sauté Bercy | ‘Chicken Bercy’ — A French Bistro Classic

June 14, 2026 | 🇫🇷 Poulet sauté Bercy is a forgotten Parisian classic. It is named after the historic wine markets of the Bercy quarter in Paris.

This dish is pure French elegance in one pan. Crispy golden chicken in a silky white wine and shallot sauce, finished with butter and parsley — nothing more, nothing less.

This is the recipe Auguste Escoffier codified in Le Guide Culinaire (1903), and it remains one of the most underrated classics in all of French cuisine.

US-Iran Ceasefire Under Strain as Fighting Flares in Lebanon | DW News

Jun 19, 2026 | Ongoing fighting in Lebanon could undermine a ceasefire between the US and Iran. Hours after US President Donald Trump warned all parties to respect a peace deal, Israel launched deadly attacks in southern Lebanon while four Israeli soldiers were killed in combat. Meanwhile talks between the US and Iran in Switzerland have been postponed. So are Israel and the militant group Hezbollah undermining the deal? Was it set up to fail?

Steve Rosenberg: How Are Russian Newspapers Reacting to the Ukrainian Drone Strike on Moscow?

Jun 19,, 2026 | Today’s Russian papers call yesterday’s large-scale Ukrainian drone strike on Moscow “a record attack”, but claim “Russian attacks do more damage to Ukraine than they’re doing to us.” One paper wonders: “From Moscow’s perspective, what level of escalation is permissible & controllable, and what isn’t?”

Cuba under Siege, with Ben Norton

Jun 17, 2026 | The US embargo on Cuba has been in place for nearly 70 years and getting tighter by the day, devastating the lives of millions on the island. Ben Norton, founder and editor-in-chief of the Geopolitical Economy Report, has "seen the consequences with his own eyes."

He joins CGTN to break down how the US has weaponized the international financial system by levying sanctions, in violation of international law, to cause "hunger, desperation and overthrow of government."

What Brexit Really Cost

Jun 19, 2026 | In June 2016, the UK voted to leave the European Union. Ten years later, Bloomberg Originals unpacks the economic cost of Brexit and the political forces it unleashed.

People who voted for Brexit were of an ilk. ‘Nuff said! — © Mark Alexander

Weekend Weather 18/06/2026 – Heatwave on the Way – Met Office Weather Forecast UK

Jun 18, 2026 | … Top temperatures drop a little on Saturday but then rise again on Sunday and into Monday with most places having dry and bright weather this weekend. Bringing you this weekend’s weather forecast is Alex Deakin.

Kuba öffnet seine Wirtschaft: Größtes Reformpaket seit Jahrzehnten beschlossen

BERLINER ZEITUNG: Die Führung in Kuba setzt auf einen radikalen Kurswechsel. Erstmals sollen private Banken, große Unternehmen und ausländische Investoren in weiten Teilen der Wirtschaft zugelassen werden.

Angesichts der schwersten Wirtschaftskrise seit Jahrzehnten hat Kuba ein weitreichendes Reformpaket zur Öffnung seiner Wirtschaft verabschiedet. Die Nationalversammlung stimmte am Donnerstag einstimmig für ein Programm mit 176 Einzelmaßnahmen. Die Reformen betreffen unter anderem das Bankwesen, den Immobilienmarkt, Auslandsinvestitionen, die Landwirtschaft, den Tourismus und Unternehmensstrukturen.

Ministerpräsident Manuel Marrero stellte die Pläne zuvor in einer mehrstündigen Rede vor dem Parlament vor. Nach seinen Angaben sollen erstmals Privatunternehmen mit mehr als 100 Beschäftigten zugelassen werden. Kubanerinnen und Kubaner sollen künftig mehrere Unternehmen besitzen dürfen. Auch private Banken und Investitionen aus dem Ausland im Privatsektor sollen erlaubt werden. » | Alexander Schmalz | Freitag, 19. Juni 2026

Guerre au Moyen-Orient : flambée de violence avec 18 morts au Liban et 4 soldats de Tsahal tués

LE FIGARO : Malgré la conclusion de l’accord entre les États-Unis et l’Iran, le Liban est la proie ce vendredi d’une flambée de violence meurtrière.

L'armée israélienne a annoncé vendredi matin la mort de quatre de ses soldats, tués en opérations dans le sud du Liban, ses premières pertes depuis la signature de l'accord entre Washington et Téhéran censé mettre fin à la guerre au Proche et au Moyen-Orient.

Des frappes israéliennes dans la nuit de jeudi à vendredi dans le sud du Liban ont fait 18 morts et 33 blessés, selon un bilan provisoire du ministère libanais de la Santé, malgré la conclusion du protocole irano-américain qui prévoit une cessation des hostilités. » | Par Le Figaro avec AFP | vendredi 19 juin 2026

Did Trump Just Versailles America?

Jun 19, 2026 | This week’s Elephant in the Room is Trump’s humiliation at Versailles. After months of threats, chest-thumping, and promises of strength against Iran, Trump arrived claiming leverage and left defending a deal that has critics asking whether America gained anything at all.

Rick Wilson breaks down the symbolism of Versailles, the political fallout of Trump’s Iran reversal, the growing cracks inside MAGA, and why this moment may be remembered as one of the defining foreign policy embarrassments of his presidency. History may not repeat itself, but it rhymes—and this week, the rhyme scheme sounded a lot like surrender.


Strong language alert!

Andy Burnham Wins Huge Majority in Makerfield Byelection, Paving Way for Starmer Leadership Challenge

THE GUARDIAN: Greater Manchester mayor says result represents Labour’s ‘final chance to change’, after soundly beating Reform UK and Restore Britain

Andy Burnham has won the crucial Makerfield byelection by a huge majority, paving the way for a challenge to Keir Starmer’s premiership.

The Greater Manchester mayor beat the Reform UK candidate, Robert Kenyon, by 9,231 votes, and the new hardline Restore Britain party came a distant third.

Labour won 54% of the vote to Reform UK’s 35%, while Restore Britain secured 7%. Turnout was 58.75%, six percentage points up on the general election, with 45,510 votes cast.

In his victory speech, Burnham said the result “could be a turning point” and that people had “voted for change, they have voted for more power for the north and everywhere forgotten by Westminster”. » | Josh Halliday | North of England editor | Friday, June 19, 2026

ALSO READ:

What an Andy Burnham premiership would look like: Following his Makerfield victory, the Manchester mayor’s dream of a high-tax, high-spending state could become reality »

Swiss Officials Say Iran Talks Are Off, for Now

THE NEW YORK TIMES: The announcement raised immediate questions over the fate of the agreement President Trump signed this week, with key details left to be worked out.

Officials in Switzerland said on Friday morning that the next stage of peace negotiations between the United States and Iran, focused on issues including Iran’s nuclear program and meant to begin on the shores of Lake Lucerne, had been postponed.

The announcement did not include any information about when the negotiations might now begin, raising immediate questions about the memorandum of understanding that President Trump and Iran’s president had signed earlier this week. That agreement left crucial terms unsettled and called for an immediate 60-day negotiating window to hash them out.

Vice President JD Vance had been scheduled to fly to Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne, about an hour outside of Zurich, for a meeting on Friday that was originally meant to be a signing ceremony. He abruptly canceled his trip late Thursday night, in Washington. » | Jim Tankersley | Reporting from Zurich | Friday, June 19, 2026

US-Iran Agreement Leaves Israelis 'in Profound State of Shock' • FRANCE 24 English

Jun 18, 2026 | Israeli leaders are privately fuming about the US-Iran deal, seeing the initial agreement as a form of capitulation. This comes as a final blow to the increasingly fraying relationship between Netanyahu and Trump, previously thought thought to be iron-clad. FRANCE 24's Noga Tarnopolsky tells us more.

TARLOS | I Don't Want to Lose You

Mar 6, 2022

Thomas & Francisco - Their Story (El Mar)

Premiered Apr 14, 2026

Vance Issues Blunt Warning to Israel as He Defends Trump’s Deal

THE NEW YORK TIMES: The vice president delivered a rebuke to Israeli critics of the agreement, warning them not to alienate their most important ally, as the administration sought to rebut mounting criticism of the deal.

Vice President JD Vance on Thursday delivered an extraordinarily direct rebuke to Israeli critics of the U.S.-Iran peace agreement, as he sought to defend the preliminary deal with repeated misrepresentations of some of its terms.

“Donald J. Trump is the only head of state in the entire world who is sympathetic to the nation of Israel at this moment in time,” Mr. Vance said. He added, “If I was in the cabinet of the Israeli government, I might not be attacking the only powerful ally that I have anywhere left in the entire world.”

The agreement has faced mounting criticism from Israeli lawmakers, as well as some Republicans in Washington, who argue that it gives Iran economic relief while punting negotiations on its nuclear program down the road.

The 60-day clock for the United States and Iran to negotiate the future of Iran’s nuclear program and other issues has begun, Mr. Vance said.

Not long after, Iran’s supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, said in his first statement since the preliminary agreement was signed that Iran would not submit to “excessive demands,” according to Iranian state media.

“In-person negotiations that will take place in the future do not mean accepting the enemy’s view,” he said in the statement, which cast his country’s bargaining position as a strong one. Mr. Trump, he said, had struck a deal “out of desperation.”

Israel is not a party to the deal, and its fighting with Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militia in Lebanon, had threatened to derail the U.S.-Iran talks, to the increasing frustration of American officials. Mr. Vance’s barbed remarks from the White House came a day after President Trump himself admonished Israel over its military campaign.

Mr. Vance also reminded Israeli critics of the deal that, according to him, two-thirds of the weapons “that have protected your homeland” were American-made and paid for by Americans’ tax dollars. Iran War Live Updates » | Erica L. Green, Max Bearak, Jonathan Swan and Rebecca F. Elliott | Thursday, June 18, 2026

Thiel Secret Society Agenda LEAKED: 'Cults, WW3, Sex'

Jun 18, 2026 | Krystal and Saagar discuss Peter Thiel's secret society being exposed.

Waleed Asadi: Authentic Crispy & Fluffy Palestinian Falafel | Better Than Any Restaurant’s | فلافل | Reupload

Mar 22, 2026 | Falafel is something that brings me so much joy and happiness. One bite of this crispy and fluffy falafel and your world is forever changed. First you get the savory crunch and then a burst of herbs and spice fills your senses. It's a beautiful thing really, and actually quite simple to make.

Click here for the full recipe.

Waleed’s very own selection of spices can be found here. Don’t forget to use the code ZAWI10 for 10% off your first order.

Waleed’s favourite Lebanese olive oil, Les Cousines, can be found here. Don’t forget to use Waleed’s very own special introductory code for 15% off your first order.

Les États-Unis, cette superpuissance qui n’a pas réussi à gagner la guerre contre l’Iran

LE FIGARO : ANALYSE - Après trois mois de frappes intensives contre l’Iran et malgré la menace de reprise des hostilités, les États-Unis ne sont pas parvenus à imposer leur volonté au régime iranien.

Face à l’Iran, les États-Unis ont montré les limites de leur surpuissance militaire. Donald Trump avait promis une « capitulation sans conditions » du régime iranien lors de la guerre des 12 jours lancée l’année dernière. Il avait proclamé avoir détruit le programme nucléaire de Téhéran (« obliterated »). En lançant Fureur épique, le 28 février, le milliardaire s’était laissé convaincre d’en finir avec la menace iranienne. Il avait déployé « une armada » pour faire plier son adversaire, appuyée par l’armée israélienne, l’une des plus performantes du monde.

Mais après cent jours de conflit et de laborieuses négociations, le régime de Téhéran est toujours en place, son contrôle du détroit d’Ormuz toujours revendiqué, ses capacités militaires, balistique et drones, toujours suffisantes pour être crédibles et le démantèlement de ses ambitions nucléaires encore à négocier. « Quelles que soient les pertes, le régime iranien, parce qu’il a résisté, peut revendiquer une victoire », observe une source militaire française. « L’histoire jugera l’accord final… », soupire un autre haut gradé en constatant les renoncements américains. « L’Iran a très bien joué », ajoute-t-il. » | Par Nicolas Barotte | jeudi 18 juin 2026

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UK Could Keep Special Pre-Brexit Terms If It Rejoined EU, Michel Barnier Says

THE GUARDIAN: Exclusive: Former chief Brexit negotiator says staying out of euro and Schengen area would be ‘perfectly possible’

This screenshot is from this Guardian article. | Michel Barnier served as the EU’s former chief Brexit negotiator and twice as a European commissioner. Photograph: Magali Delporte/The Guardian
Michel Barnier has said Britain could regain its special terms if it rejoined the EU and claimed it was becoming clearer every day to the British people that they would be stronger in Europe.

In an interview before the 10th anniversary of the Brexit referendum next week, the EU’s former chief Brexit negotiator said he could not see any obstacle to the UK keeping the pound and remaining outside the passport-free Schengen travel area should the country rejoin.

The comments cast serious doubt on suggestions from some authoritative voices, including Poland’s foreign minister, that the UK could be forced to accept more difficult terms on re-entering the bloc.

They will be seen as a boost to those who are campaigning for the UK to rejoin the EU, with polling showing that support for rejoining is stronger when the old terms are on the table.

Under the EU treaties, all member states are expected to join the euro, apart from Denmark, which has a permanent opt-out. » | Daniel Boffey | Chief reporter | Thursday, June 18, 2026

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‘Cynical to get power’: Michel Barnier on Boris Johnson, Brexit and the EU’s future: Former negotiator believes in an unstable world, it is ‘perfectly possible’ the UK can rejoin the EU with old opt-outs »

Donald Trump Has Condemned Himself | Steve Schmidt

Jun 18, 2026 | Donald Trump has broken his promises. Steve Schmidt explains why Trump will never be able to undo this catastrophic war and why he's falling apart, physically and in the polls.

How ‘Madman’ Trump Exploits MAGA's Worst Impulses

The world is captive to a madman!

Democracy Now! Trump's War on Iran Ends with a "Triumphant" Tehran

Jun 18, 2026 | The United States and Iran have officially signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at ending the war in Iran. The 14-point agreement includes an immediate end to fighting on all fronts including Lebanon, an end to the U.S. naval blockade on Iran and the full resumption of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. It also proposes easing oil sanctions on Iran, unfreezing Iranian assets and launching a $300 billion investment fund to rebuild Iran, all while tabling the question of Iran’s nuclear program, which is instead set to be negotiated over in the coming months.

“The United States is more eager for this war to end than Iran is,” says Professor Vali Nasr, who teaches at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies. “In Iran, they’re very triumphant.” We discuss the long-term effects of the war, from the growing U.S. distrust of Israel, to the new generation of political leaders in the Islamic Republic, to the evolution of Iran into a major power player in an increasingly multipolar world.


Democracy Now! can be supported here.

What History Won't Forget About Trump

Jun 18, 2026 | Donald Trump recently turned 80, marking eight decades of a life that has fractured the West, elevated its enemies, and trapped us in a post-truth nightmare.

In this video, I look at his legacy, analyzing how he actively weaponized the rot in US politics to build a dangerous cult. Turning the White House into a trashy cage-fighting spectacle perfectly encapsulates the cultural decay he has brought to the US.

By dismantling historic democratic guardrails, he has cleared the path for an ever more authoritarian state where his word is law, forcing an entire movement to substitute destructive delusions for objective reality.

I also look at his record, from his long-standing ties to his former bestie Jeffrey Epstein to the unprecedented corruption of his second term (which is even worse than his first one).

Trump has presided over the most lucrative presidency in US history, shamelessly using the Oval Office to enrich himself by billions through family crypto scams, all while causing inflation with tariffs and weaponizing ICE into a domestic force of terror.

From his ongoing betrayal of Ukraine, and reckless handling of Taiwan, to his catastrophic war with Iran (which he lost), I break down how he has alienated democratic allies and bowed to hostile autocrats. He has left the US poorer, more polarized, more hated, less feared, and less respected, while actively sabotaging national safety from the top down.

What do you think about the path the country is on? How much longer will this era of Trump last, and who will replace him?

Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments on YouTube; I will try to answer most of them.


I am glad I am not alone in my assessment of Trump. I, too, have said that Trump is garbage. Trash! He has done his best to ruin the West. He has totally weakened the West. Trump is so bad as a president that it is hard to think of anything positive to say about either him or his presidency. Joni Askola is absolutely spot on in his assessment of America’s worst president ever. The sooner Americans grow up and start electing a man or woman worthy of the office of president, the better. America’s future, and the West’s, depend on it. — © Mark Alexander

Donald Trump Is a Decrepit Narcissist Who Has Lost Control of Himself and His MAGA Coalition.

Steve Schmidt gives us the low down.

Democracy Now! Top US & World Headlines

June 18, 2026

Democracy Now! can be supported here.

Moscow Oil Refinery Struck in Ukraine’s Biggest Air Raid on City since Start of War

THE GUARDIAN: Kyiv says attack, which also forced evacuation at Russia’s biggest airport, was in response to strike on historic monastery

Ukrainian drones have hit several locations across Moscow in Kyiv’s biggest air raid on the city since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, setting a major ⁠oil refinery on fire and forcing evacuations at the country’s largest airport.

The Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, described the attack as a response to Russia’s striking of a historic Kyiv monastery complex earlier this week.

“We do not want this war and never did,” Zelenskyy said in a voice message to journalists. “But if Ukraine is going to burn, your Moscow will burn too … It is time to end the aggression, time to end this war.” » | Peter Beaumont in Kyiv and Pjotr Sauer | Thursday, June 18, 2026

Gavin Newsom: »Donald Trump ist der korrupteste Präsident der US-Geschichte« | DER SPIEGEL

Jun 17, 2026 | Kampfansage an seinen Widersacher: Kaliforniens Gouverneur geht den US-Präsidenten in einem Video hart an und spricht von politischer Verfolgung. Berichten zufolge laufen tatsächlich Ermittlungen gegen Newsom.

Trump hätte schon längst im Gefängnis sitzen müssen, aber die Amerikaner hatten nicht den Mut, das Richtige zu tun. Die Welt musste deshalb die schrecklichen Folgen tragen. — © Mark Alexander

Der Iran-Deal im Wortlaut: Diese 14 Punkte haben Trump und Teheran vereinbart

BERLINER ZEITUNG: Das neue Abkommen soll den Krieg beenden und die Straße von Hormus wieder öffnen. Die Berliner Zeitung dokumentiert die 14 Punkte in deutscher Fassung.

Dieser Screenshot stammt aus diesem Artikel. | Irans Präsident Massud Peseschkian. Das neue Abkommen mit den USA umfasst 14 Punkte. | © Foad Ashtari/imago
Die USA und der Iran haben ein 14 Punkte umfassendes Rahmenabkommen zur Beendigung ihres Krieges unterzeichnet. Die Vereinbarung trägt nach Angaben der Nachrichtenagentur Reuters den Titel „Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran“.

Das Dokument soll die Grundlage für Verhandlungen über ein endgültiges Friedensabkommen bilden. Die Gespräche sollen nach Angaben von Reuters am Freitag in der Schweiz beginnen und zunächst 60 Tage dauern. Viele der schwierigsten Streitfragen, darunter die Zukunft des iranischen Atomprogramms, werden in dem Memorandum nicht endgültig gelöst, sondern auf die nächste Verhandlungsrunde verschoben.

Reuters veröffentlichte den Text, der von einem ranghohen US-Regierungsvertreter vor Journalisten verlesen wurde. Die Berliner Zeitung dokumentiert die 14 Punkte in deutscher Fassung. » | Alexander Schmalz | Donnerstag, 18. Juni 2026