July 4th Heat Wave, Russian Strikes On Ukraine, Future Of Democratic Party
Up First from NPR
Jul 3, 2026
As the U.S. approaches its 250th birthday amid a massive heatwave impacting celebrations, Ukraine faces escalating Russian missile attacks while intensifying its own deep drone strikes. Simultaneously, internal Democratic Party primary upsets highlight a struggle between progressive energy and broader electoral viability.
Key insight: Ukrainian drone strikes have systematically targeted Russia's critical oil infrastructure, with over 50 reported attacks since March, aiming to cripple the Russian economy and its war machine.
