Key Takeaways
- Congress reconvenes facing a looming government shutdown by end of September.
- Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro is on trial for allegedly plotting a 2022 coup.
- A deadly earthquake in Afghanistan has killed over 950 people, worsening an aid crisis.
Deep Dive
- Congress reconvenes in Washington facing a government shutdown deadline by the end of September.
- Lawmakers are pressured by constituents on economic concerns and for transparency regarding the Epstein files.
- Republicans are divided on federal funding levels, while Democrats push for specific appropriations plans.
- Former President Jair Bolsonaro faces trial in Brazil's Supreme Court for allegedly plotting to overthrow the government after his 2022 election loss.
- He is charged with five offenses, including attempting to violently end democratic rule and plotting a coup.
- The trial is considered pivotal for Brazil's democracy, which recently emerged from military dictatorship.
- Former U.S. President Trump called Bolsonaro's trial a "witch hunt" and imposed tariffs and sanctions against Brazilian officials.
- Bolsonaro, 70, maintains his innocence, claiming any discussions about staying in power were constitutional.
- If convicted, Bolsonaro could face up to 40 years in prison, with concerns about potential further U.S. sanctions on Brazil.
- A deadly earthquake in Afghanistan has killed over 950 people, with the death toll expected to rise in remote, mountainous regions.
- Rescue efforts are challenged by inaccessible terrain, requiring long transports for the injured and manual digging.
- The crisis exacerbates aid challenges, as U.S. aid was largely suspended earlier this year, leading to shortages.
- The UN appealed for emergency funds, but donors hesitate to provide direct aid to the Taliban due to alleged diversion and restrictions on women aid workers.
- Victims likely include Afghans recently deported from Iran and Pakistan, many settled in quake-affected areas.