Putin threatens response if US deploys missiles in Germany
Following plans for the US to position longer-range missiles in Germany, Russia has threatened to respond in kind. Both sides are considering deploying nuclear-capable weapons.
Deadly strike on football pitch on Golan Heights from Lebanon
Israeli medics say at least 10 people were killed in a barrage of rockets fired from Lebanon into the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. Eli Bin, head of the Magen David Adom emergency service, said the victims were between the ages of 10 and 20.
Boos greet convicted rapist Van de Velde at his first match
Dutch beach volleyball player Steven van de Velde’s participation at the Paris Olympics is causing controversy due to a rape conviction in 2016. Women’s groups are furious that he is being allowed to compete.
Polls open as Maduro vies for third term in Venezuela
Incumbent Nicolas Maduro is competing against Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, who poses the biggest threat to “Chavismo” in 25 years. The populist movement was founded by Hugo Chavez, Maduro’s predecessor and mentor.
Swimming training cancelled over Seine pollution in Paris
France invested €1.4 billion to clean the Seine ahead of the Olympic Games, but recent heavy rains have seen pollution levels rise again in Paris. Organizers said they were “confident” water quality would improve soon.