Philippines–US Security Ties: The US Trade and Development Agency says its critical-infrastructure push in the Philippines supports US defense priorities, spotlighting a planned Subic–Clark–Manila–Batangas cargo rail to move minerals to Subic Bay. Middle East Diplomacy: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun in Washington, backing a trilateral framework aimed at disarming Hezbollah and securing an Israeli withdrawal. EU–China Trade: France and Germany want a Franco-German roadmap by September to respond to China’s trade practices, including subsidies and currency concerns. UK Energy Policy: Incoming PM Andy Burnham is preparing an early push to expand North Sea oil and gas, including fast-tracking licensed projects. Climate Costs: A new report warns Bangladesh and other countries are losing the equivalent of 20+ workdays a year to extreme heat, hitting incomes and economies. West Africa Politics/Infrastructure: Sierra Leone inaugurated a Julius Maada Bio international convention centre ahead of an ECOWAS summit, with President Adama Barrow attending. Ghana Regional Trade: Ghana lifted restrictions on egg exports to Burkina Faso and resumed tomato imports after talks, with a joint technical committee planned. Global Markets: Wall Street slipped as AI-stock weakness spread, even as earnings season ramps up. Sports & Politics: Trump attended the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, while Spain’s Borja Iglesias said he’ll shake Trump’s hand if Spain win.