Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman confirmed on Friday that midfielder Frenkie de Jong is dealing with a physical discomfort, casting doubt on his availability for the World Cup group stage match against Sweden on Saturday in Houston, according to Mundo Deportivo. Koeman stated that De Jong has a minor complaint but did not specify the nature or severity of the injury. The Netherlands face Sweden in their second Group F fixture, with both teams looking to secure a place in the knockout rounds. Koeman also addressed questions about Sweden's attacking threats, acknowledging the quality of forwards Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres, who impressed in Sweden's opening match against Tunisia. The Dutch coach expressed confidence in his squad's ability to handle the Swedish offensive. De Jong's potential absence would be a significant blow for the Netherlands, as the Barcelona midfielder is a key figure in Koeman's tactical setup. A decision on his participation is expected closer to match time.
Gabriel Rufián, a prominent Catalan independence figure, has urged Mónica Oltra to take advantage of what he described as a “historic opportunity” to unite Spain’s left-wing political forces, according to HuffPost España. Rufián called on the different factions to abandon their differences and work together toward a common political project. The appeal comes at a time of shifting alliances on the Spanish left, with various parties exploring potential cooperation ahead of future electoral contests. Oltra, a prominent Valencian politician and former vice-president of the Valencian Community, has been a key figure in the left-wing Compromís coalition. The prospect of broader left-wing unity in Spain has been a recurring theme in the country’s politics, though previous efforts have struggled to overcome ideological and territorial divisions.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is planning a visit to the Middle East next week and is expected to travel to Kuwait, according to a report by Axios cited by Reuters. The trip comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts in a region marked by shifting alliances and security concerns. Rubio’s itinerary and the specific agenda for the discussions have not been officially detailed by the State Department, but the visit signals continued U.S. engagement in Gulf diplomacy. Kuwait, a key non-NATO ally, has played a mediating role in regional disputes. The trip would be Rubio’s latest foray into Middle Eastern affairs since assuming the top U.S. diplomatic post, as Washington navigates complex relationships with both Gulf partners and Iran following the recent truce agreement.
Actor Tim Allen, 73, has returned to voice Buzz Lightyear in Toy Story 5, which hits theaters this weekend, according to 3DJuegos. Allen revealed in interviews that production told him he sounded ‘old’ when recording his lines, a comment he said he was unsure how to process. The fifth installment of the beloved Pixar franchise has received strong critical reviews. Notably, the Spanish-language dub will feature a different voice cast compared to previous installments, marking a change for audiences in Spain. The film’s release marks a major summer box office event, with family audiences expected to drive strong attendance. Allen has voiced Buzz Lightyear since the original 1995 Toy Story, making the character one of the most recognizable in animation history.
Former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero was questioned this week by a judge at the Audiencia Nacional over consulting contracts characterized by verbal agreements, generic reports, and a consultancy structure designed around his profile, according to elDiario. Zapatero attempted to argue that his work was legal during the interrogation by Judge José Luis Calama, but faced a magistrate determined to obtain documentary evidence supporting his consultancy activities. The case has drawn attention to the post-office professional activities of former Spanish leaders, with the judge reportedly pressing for documentation that would substantiate the services Zapatero claimed to have provided. The former prime minister has denied any wrongdoing and defended the legitimacy of his consulting engagements.
A Panama-flagged merchant vessel came under drone attack in the Black Sea late on Friday, resulting in the death of one crew member and injuries to two others, Panama’s Maritime Authority (AMP) reported. The incident underscores persistent security risks to commercial shipping in the Black Sea, a vital corridor for grain and energy cargoes. The AMP confirmed the assault but did not identify the responsible party or specify the vessel’s cargo. Maritime security analysts have highlighted ongoing threats to civilian vessels in the region, where naval engagements and drone operations have periodically endangered merchant navigation. The nationalities of the affected crew members have not been disclosed, and authorities said investigations are underway. The attack follows a pattern of maritime incidents that have disrupted shipping routes and raised insurance costs for vessels operating in Black Sea waters.
US President Donald Trump's recent confrontation with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at the G7 summit is the latest in a long series of public disputes with allied leaders, according to ABC. Trump reportedly remarked that he posed for a photograph with Meloni because she gave him the opportunity, in comments that drew criticism. The incident fits a broader pattern of Trump openly criticizing leaders of countries the US considers allies, the report notes. Over the years, Trump has engaged in public spats with leaders from NATO member states, trade partners, and traditional US allies, often questioning their contributions to shared defense and economic arrangements. The confrontational approach has frequently strained diplomatic relationships and generated debate about the state of transatlantic relations. The clash with Meloni at the G7 highlights ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and European allies on issues ranging from trade tariffs to defense spending commitments.