Mehdi Hasan on Donald Trump’s big, beautiful birthday

Mehdi Hasan on Donald Trump’s big, beautiful birthday

As the US prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary and Trump turns 80, what state is the country in? And its president?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus [https://www.theguardian.com/infocus]

The view from Belfast after a night of violent protests - The Latest

Violence erupted in Northern Ireland last night in response to a stabbing attack in Belfast that was captured in a graphic video. Crowds, including masked men, burned vehicles and houses, hours after Elon Musk, Tommy Robinson and other agitators encouraged people to take to the streets. Nosheen Iqbal speaks to Ireland correspondent Rory Carroll – watch on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@todayinfocuspodcast]. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus [https://www.theguardian.com/infocus]

‘Grandpa in a bunker’: is Putin losing control?

Russian affairs reporter Pjotr Sauer on Vladimir Putin’s increasing isolation – and seeming paranoia – as ordinary Russians become more restive over the toll of the war in Ukraine and a struggling economy at home. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus [https://www.theguardian.com/infocus]

Can Badenoch’s culture war win back Reform supporters? – The Latest

Kemi Badenoch has vowed to reform the Equality Act in what is viewed as an attempt to win back support from Reform voters. The Conservative leader, who also served as equalities minister from 2020 to 2022, wants to scrap the public sector equality duty – a legal requirement that forces public institutions to actively consider how their decisions affect equality. Nosheen Iqbal speaks to community affairs correspondent Aamna Mohdin – watch on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@todayinfocuspodcast]. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus [https://www.theguardian.com/infocus]

The criminal cartels cashing in on the World Cup

Football fans are celebrating the tournament coming to Guadalajara. But with a brutal crime syndicate holding sway there, what are the risks for fans – and the government?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus [https://www.theguardian.com/infocus]