Ukraine's allies meet amid doubts over guarantees, US backing
Western leaders met in Paris with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to advance security guarantees for Ukraine, but the effort still hinges on US backing, Reuters reported.
France’s Emmanuel Macron said technical plans are ready, stressing Europe’s determination to support Kyiv and hoping Washington will sign on. Donald Trump has yet to commit, though his envoy Steve Witkoff discussed the proposals with officials in Paris.
Russian President Vladimir Putin repeated calls for talks but warned Moscow remains ready to use force if necessary.
Indonesian students to stage parliament protest, await meeting with government
Thousands of students protested outside Jakarta’s parliament, demanding accountability for police violence and a government dialogue. The demonstrations were sparked by the death of a motorbike taxi driver hit by police, fueling wider anger over corruption and lawmakers’ lavish benefits, Reuters reported.
Despite prior meetings with parliament members, students say their calls for reform and an independent investigation remain unaddressed. At least ten people have died and over 1,000 injured since unrest began, drawing criticism of heavy-handed security measures.
Students vow to continue protests until their demands for justice and transparency are met.
US employer health insurance premiums set to climb in 2026
Health insurance premiums under employer plans are expected to rise 6 to 7 percent in 2026, a Mercer survey shows. Even with benefit redesigns, employer costs are projected to grow 6.5 percent, and nearly 9 percent without changes, Reuters reported.
The surge is driven mainly by expensive specialty drugs, higher demand for medical and mental health care, and inflation in healthcare wages. To manage the burden, many employers are revising coverage, increasing cost-sharing, and expanding access to virtual and behavioral health services.
Trump takes tariffs fight to US Supreme Court
Donald Trump has asked the US Supreme Court to quickly review a ruling that struck down his use of emergency powers to impose sweeping tariffs. A federal appeals court said Trump overstepped by relying on the 1977 emergency law, stressing that only Congress can levy tariffs on such a scale, Reuters reported.
The administration argues the measures are vital for economic security and wants the Court to act before September 10, with hearings in November. The tariffs remain in place while the case continues.
The challenge was brought by small businesses and a dozen Democratic-led states, who warned that Trump’s move violated the Constitution. If the Supreme Court sides with them, it could curb Trump’s wider economic agenda.
