June Opens with Unrest, Conflict, and Breakthroughs
From sweeping protests in Los Angeles to intensified warfare in Ukraine, the first ten days of June 2025 have delivered a wave of global events marked by violence, resistance, and transformation. In this week’s World News Wednesday, we examine the most critical stories shaping the world as of mid-June.
Federal Forces Deployed in Los Angeles Amid Immigration Protests
Federal agents and National Guard troops have been deployed to Los Angeles in response to large-scale protests triggered by sweeping ICE raids across the city. Demonstrations began on June 6 and have since escalated into clashes with police, including the use of tear gas and flash-bang grenades. California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the federal actions as excessive, while President Trump authorized the mobilization of more than 2,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines. The move marks the largest military intervention on U.S. soil since the 1965 Watts Rebellion and has ignited renewed debate over the use of military force in domestic policing.
Austria Grieves After Deadly School Shooting
Austria is in national mourning after a mass shooting at a high school in Graz left ten people dead, including seven students and two staff members. The attacker, a 21-year-old former student, opened fire in two classrooms on the morning of June 10 before turning the weapon on himself. Authorities are investigating the gunman’s motives and the legality of his firearms, while grief counselors and crisis response teams have been dispatched to support survivors and families.
Largest Russian Air Assault in Years Targets Ukrainian Cities
On June 10, Russia launched one of its most extensive aerial attacks since the invasion of Ukraine began, deploying over 315 drones and multiple missiles against Kyiv, Odesa, and other major cities. While Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted the majority, at least three civilians were killed and more than a dozen injured. A maternity hospital and a UNESCO-listed cathedral sustained structural damage, further inflaming international condemnation. The escalation follows recent Ukrainian strikes on Russian military infrastructure and continues to hinder peace negotiations.
Gaza Freedom Flotilla Blocked as Global Activists Attempt to Deliver Aid
A civilian vessel carrying humanitarian aid and high-profile activists – including climate leader Greta Thunberg and a member of the European Parliament – was intercepted in international waters en route to Gaza. Departing from Italy on June 1, the ship was closely monitored by military drones before its detainment near Egyptian waters. The blockade highlights growing international frustration over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the increasing role of civil disobedience in global advocacy.
Mali Faces Intensified Jihadist Attacks as Wagner Forces Exit
In Mali, June has been marked by rising jihadist violence, including the seizure of military outposts and the abduction of civilians by al-Qaeda–affiliated militants. The attacks coincide with the formal withdrawal of Russia’s Wagner Group from the country, though Russia-backed “Africa Corps” forces remain. Analysts warn that the security vacuum may further destabilize the already fragile Sahel region.
World Bank Issues Stark Global Economic Outlook
The World Bank issued a sobering economic forecast on June 4, warning that global growth may remain at a sluggish 2.3% through the decade – the slowest sustained rate since the 1960s. The report cites prolonged effects from the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S.–China trade tensions, and escalating geopolitical instability. Officials urge major economies to reduce tariffs and foster international cooperation to avoid long-term stagnation.
Poland and South Korea Near Major Tank Deal
South Korea and Poland are finalizing a multibillion-dollar deal for K2 Black Panther battle tanks, reinforcing NATO defense capabilities and signaling South Korea’s growing presence in global arms trade. The agreement, expected to close by the end of the month, follows Poland’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military in response to Russian aggression.
IBM Unveils Quantum Computing Milestone
On June 10, IBM announced its plans to construct the world’s first fault-tolerant, large-scale quantum computer. The facility, designed to house next-generation quantum processors, could usher in revolutionary advancements across fields including cryptography, climate modeling, and artificial intelligence. This marks a major leap in the race toward commercial quantum computing infrastructure.
Environmental Advances Bring Measured Hope
Amid the global unrest, some environmental developments offered hope. Colombia reported a 33% reduction in Amazon deforestation in early 2025, thanks to aggressive protection policies. Meanwhile, World Environment Day, observed on June 5 in Jeju, South Korea, spotlighted global efforts to combat plastic pollution and advance circular economies.
Animal Rights Movement Gains Ground in June
While violence and volatility dominate headlines, the animal rights movement has quietly notched major victories in policy, public awareness, and resistance to corporate surveillance.
- U.S. Navy bans dog and cat testing
On June 9, the U.S. Navy officially ended all experiments involving dogs and cats following pressure from animal advocates and public outrage over inhumane electroshock research. The move is hailed as a significant milestone in ending government-funded animal cruelty. - FBI surveillance of peaceful activists exposed
A WIRED investigation revealed that Big Ag lobbyists – namely the Animal Agriculture Alliance – collaborated with the FBI to label animal rights groups as potential bioterror threats. Undercover operatives infiltrated Direct Action Everywhere (DxE) and other advocacy circles, sparking widespread concern over civil liberties violations and the criminalization of nonviolent dissent. - Global observance of National Animal Rights Day
Held June 1 in over 160 cities worldwide, National Animal Rights Day spotlighted growing momentum for abolitionist ethics and cruelty-free living. Events ranged from solemn memorials to educational expos, reinforcing solidarity across borders. - PETA pushes to end livestock parade in Scotland
In Edinburgh, PETA challenged the Royal Highland Show’s traditional livestock parade, calling it a “cruel spectacle” and advocating for a permanent statue to honor animals without exploitation. The campaign reignited debate over animals in entertainment and cultural traditions.
Together, these developments reflect a powerful undercurrent of compassion and conscience, steadily influencing institutions, media narratives, and international awareness.
From collapse to conscience, the global stage this June reflects dual forces in motion. Whether through protest, policy, or technological breakthrough, these stories underscore the urgent need for ethical leadership, ecological awareness, and unflinching truth-telling in a world on edge.
The Humane Herald 