U.S. Ambassador to Russia Lynne Tracy visited American Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter arrested in March on espionage charges, in a Moscow prison on Monday. She reported that Gershkovich is in good health and remains strong, and the Biden administration is advocating for his release and calling for continued consular access. The U.S. Embassy is providing all necessary support to Gershkovich and his family.
News Mash
Social media influencer Jackie Miller James is recovering from a medically-induced coma and C-section she underwent in May. Her family has shared that she is conscious and has been transferred to a neurological rehabilitation hospital, where she is performing above expectations. James has been reunited with her daughter, who was born prematurely due to the traumatic nature of her birth, and is now focusing on her recovery. The family has asked for continued prayers and privacy during this time.
Vietnam has banned the movie “Barbie” from domestic distribution due to a scene featuring a map that shows China’s unilaterally claimed territory in the South China Sea. This ban is a reminder of the ongoing tensions between Vietnam and China over the South China Sea, as other films such as “The Great Wall” and “Kung Fu Panda 3” have been banned in the past.
Michael Imperioli, best known for his roles in "The Sopranos," "The White Lotus," and "Goodfellas," has taken a stand against the Supreme Court's recent ruling in favor of a Colorado graphic designer who refused services to same-sex couples. He has declared that bigots and homophobes are not allowed to watch his work, and has expressed his opinion that America is becoming dumber by the minute. His comments have been met with both praise and criticism, but it is clear that he is passionate about the issue and is not afraid to voice his opinion.
Actor Drena De Niro, daughter of Robert De Niro, announced the tragic death of her son Leandro De Niro Rodriguez on Sunday. In an emotional Instagram post, she mourned her son, saying "My beautiful sweet angel, I have loved you beyond words or description from the moment I felt you in my belly." The news has been met with an outpouring of support from the public, with Drena De Niro concluding her post by saying she will try to "spread the love and light" that Rodriguez made her feel.
Lawyers for Civil Rights is challenging Harvard University's legacy admissions policy, alleging that it discriminates against students of color. The suit claims that the policy violates the Civil Rights Act and gives an unfair boost to mostly white children of alumni. The case is a response to the Supreme Court's decision to end affirmative action in college admissions, and could have a significant impact on the admissions process at Harvard and other universities.
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is visiting China this week to discuss the implications of recent laws passed by China on U.S. citizens and businesses, with the aim of improving the relationship between the two countries. These laws include a counterespionage law, a Foreign Relations Law, and the sentencing of a U.S. citizen to life in prison on spying charges. Yellen's visit is expected to focus on the importance of the two countries to global economic stability.
South Carolina State Police arson investigators have charged a 33-year-old man with attempted murder in connection with a house fire that left six people dead and one injured. The survivor was airlifted to a hospital in critical condition and the suspect is being held at the Colleton Detention Center. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, and the Sheriff's Office is asking anyone with information to contact them.