Ukraine faced its largest air attack yet, with 728 drones and 13 missiles hitting cities overnight. President Zelensky called it a “telling attack” as peace talks fail. US President Donald Trump criticised Russia’s Vladimir Putin, saying, “He wants to keep killing people.” Trump reversed a recent pause on US military aid, now promising Patriot missiles to Ukraine. The city of Lutsk, near Poland, was badly hit. Russia claimed a Ukrainian drone killed three in Kursk. Ceasefire talks are stalled. Trump is also considering strong sanctions. European leaders, meeting in Rome, promised more help. Germany will send Ukraine air defences soon. (PC: DSNS Ukraine)

The Earth’s rotation unexpectedly sped up on July 9, 2025, making it the shortest day measured since atomic timekeeping began in 1960—approximately 1.3 to 1.6 milliseconds shorter than the standard 24 hours . Scientists attribute this slight acceleration to the Moon’s gravitational interaction when it’s furthest from Earth’s equator, a pattern repeating on July 22 and August 5 . While imperceptible in daily life, the shift challenges timekeeping systems such as GPS and telecommunications and may prompt a rare “negative leap second”—removing time—to synchronize atomic clocks . The phenomenon offers insight into Earth’s geophysical dynamics without posing risks. (PC: NDTV)  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Namibia’s highest civilian honour, the Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis, during his visit to Windhoek. He thanked Namibia and said India-Namibia friendship will “shine like a diamond.” Modi linked the two nations through their diamond trade — Namibia as a top producer and Gujarat as a major polishing hub. He praised Namibia’s strong democratic values and said both countries have supported each other since their freedom struggles. This was Modi’s first visit to Namibia. It also marked his 27th international award since 2014. India and Namibia signed four agreements to boost ties in key areas. (PC: @NarendraModi/PTI)

Heavy rain lashed Delhi and nearby areas on Wednesday evening, causing waterlogging in many places like BD Marg, Lodhi Road, and GRG Road. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for Delhi-NCR, warning of moderate rain with thunderstorms and lightning over the next two hours. The day’s temperature was expected to reach 35°C, with a minimum of 24°C. Air quality improved, with the AQI recorded at 81, in the ‘satisfactory’ range. Other nearby areas like Sonipat, Rewari, and Meerut are also likely to receive rain. Rain has kept Delhi’s air clean for 14 straight days. (PC: ANI)

Over 100 people died in Central Texas after deadly floods on July 4. A report says key weather offices were understaffed due to cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which is backed by Elon Musk. Offices in San Angelo, Austin, and Houston lacked leadership just before the disaster. Camp Mystic lost 27 campers and staff. Critics say the staff shortage slowed emergency response. While the National Weather Service claims warnings were timely, experts say missing roles hurt coordination. The staff cuts were part of President Trump’s plan to shrink federal jobs. Questions are now being raised about DOGE’s impact. (PC: Getty Images via AFP)

Senior Iranian adviser Javad Larijani ominously stated on state TV that former U.S. President Donald Trump “can no longer sunbathe in Mar‑a‑Lago,” warning that “a small drone might hit him in the navel” while he relaxes at his Florida estate . The comment escalates the ongoing tension following fatwas labeling Trump a “muharib” under Shia law and calls for his killing . This warning comes amid reports of Iran raising a $40 million bounty through “Blood Pact” to target those it deems enemies of Supreme Leader Khamenei . U.S. officials have previously thwarted several Iran-linked assassination plots against Trump and other top figures. (PC: Reuters)

India captain Shubman Gill produced a sensational performance in the second Test at Edgbaston, scoring 269 and 161—totaling a rare 430 runs—to lead India to a commanding 336‑run victory over England . His monumental effort made him only the fifth cricketer in Test history to surpass 400 runs in a single match and the second-ever to record a double century and a 150 in the same Test . Gill’s run haul propelled him from 23rd to a career‑high No. 6 in the ICC Test batting rankings . Meanwhile, England’s Harry Brook ascended to world No. 1, overtaking Joe Root . The emphatic win marked India’s first victory at Edgbaston in 19 attempts and set the tone for the rest of the series. (PC: X)    

The Delhi government has cancelled a ₹60 lakh tender meant for renovating Chief Minister Rekha Gupta’s official residence. The tender was issued by the Public Works Department for two bungalows on Raj Niwas Marg in Civil Lines. One bungalow was to be her home, and the other her camp office. The camp office was opened last week. The cancelled renovation plan included 14 air conditioners, TVs, and other electrical fittings. Officials said the tender was cancelled due to administrative reasons. The decision comes amid ongoing debates over government spending on official residences and use of public funds. (PC: PTI)

A section of the Gambhira Bridge connecting Vadodara and Anand in Gujarat collapsed on July 9, 2025, causing five vehicles—including trucks, vans, and an autorickshaw—to plunge into the Mahisagar River. At least nine people have died and nine more were rescued, officials confirmed . A viral video shows a distraught mother screaming, “My child is drowning in the water,” as bystanders scramble in vain . The nearly 900‑metre bridge, constructed in 1985, had previously been marked unsafe; a replacement had been approved months earlier. Rescue efforts continue with cranes and JCBs, while authorities have launched a technical investigation into the disaster .    

Starting in 2026, the US will charge a $250 Visa Integrity Fee for most non-immigrant visas. This includes student, tourist, work, and exchange visas. The fee, part of a new law signed by President Trump, acts like a security deposit. It may be refunded if visitors leave the US on time or get permanent residency. Extra charges like the $24 I-94 fee and $13 ESTA fee will also apply. The fees will change every year based on inflation. Critics say the new costs may stop genuine visitors, especially from developing countries, and affect cultural exchange and education. (PC: India Today)