Logan Andrew – July 20, 2025 – 5 min read
As the heat rose across the country, so did the tension in courtrooms, war zones, and campaign trails. From federal judges pushing back against executive orders to fireworks in New York’s mayoral race, it’s clear we’re heading into a summer that refuses to slow down. Here’s everything you missed this week—without the cable news noise.
U.S. Politics
Birthright Citizenship Hits a Legal Wall
A federal judge threw a wrench into the administration’s attempt to end birthright citizenship. The order, which was scheduled to take effect next week, is now blocked nationwide after the judge certified affected children as a legal class. It’s a legal chess match now heading for the Supreme Court, with advocates on both sides gearing up for a landmark ruling on the 14th Amendment.
Trade Talks Drag On
The tariff threat between the U.S. and Canada didn’t blow up—but it’s not off the table. President Trump extended negotiations until August 1 after talks nearly collapsed. Canadian officials paused planned retaliatory tariffs, but the threat of a sweeping 35% duty still looms. Businesses on both sides of the border are holding their breath while dairy and metal industries prepare for impact either way.
Cuomo’s Not Done Yet
After losing the Democratic primary for New York City mayor, Andrew Cuomo is launching an independent bid for the November election. That’s left the field fractured—progressive front-runner Zohran Mamdani leads the polls, while Cuomo and incumbent Mayor Eric Adams battle for second. The infighting might be enough to hand Mamdani the win outright, unless someone drops out. Don’t hold your breath.
Global Headlines
Ceasefire on Paper, Rockets in the Sky
The Israel-Iran conflict technically has a ceasefire in place—just not one anyone seems to be honoring. Both countries continued to trade missile strikes this week, with U.S. military bases in the region on high alert. Iran’s military leadership issued public warnings, while mysterious blasts rocked facilities deep inside Iranian territory. The ceasefire, at this point, feels more like a suggestion.
Ukraine War Drags On
Russia intensified its bombardment of Ukrainian cities, while NATO nations announced expanded air defense support. The U.S. and Europe committed to a new package of missile systems and radar units. Meanwhile, Washington gave Moscow an informal deadline to re-engage in peace talks or face additional sanctions. Russia’s response? Shrugs. It’s clear the war is still far from over—and so is the support for Ukraine.
Africa: Progress and Protest
In Washington, officials from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda signed a new peace agreement aimed at resolving years of fighting in eastern Congo. The deal requires the withdrawal of foreign troops and sets up joint economic programs. Meanwhile, Kenya is reeling from a wave of deadly protests after a street vendor was shot and killed by police. The footage sparked nationwide outrage and a fierce response from the president, who told officers to use whatever force necessary. The backlash is growing.
Elsewhere Around the World
Pakistan made headlines by announcing it would nominate Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize for his role in de-escalating a recent standoff with India. It’s unclear if the move is serious diplomacy or strategic flattery, but it’s getting attention. And in Belarus, President Lukashenko pardoned several political prisoners in what some see as a goodwill gesture—or a pressure valve—as he quietly tries to ease Western sanctions.
Trending News
All-Star Game Ends with a Home Run Derby
The MLB All-Star Game delivered a twist: tied at the end of nine innings, the outcome was decided by a three-man home run derby. The National League came out on top, finally snapping a years-long losing streak. It was fast, dramatic, and way more fun than extra innings. Fans are already calling for the format to stick around.
Markets Keep Climbing
Despite global instability, U.S. stock markets soared to new highs. The S&P 500 closed above 5,000, and tech stocks led the charge. Inflation continues to cool slightly, and interest rate hikes may finally pause. For now, investors are optimistic, even if the rest of the world feels like it’s on edge.
Hollywood Stalled, But Fans Step Up
The strikes in Hollywood continue, halting most new production. But fans haven’t slowed down. A surprise sci-fi hit (Galactic Odyssey) smashed the billion-dollar mark at the box office, while nostalgia-driven re-releases of Barbie and Oppenheimer sparked another round of double-feature madness. With no new TV on the way, audiences are turning theaters into their summer escape.
From legal standoffs at home to fragile truces abroad, the week proved once again that the world doesn’t take a break just because it’s July. Whether you’re following politics, sports, or international showdowns, one thing’s clear: this summer is shaping up to be anything but boring. Catch you next Sunday.
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