Ukraine's parliament has enacted its largest wartime tax increase to bolster funding for the ongoing conflict against Russia. This legislative move coincides with President Volodymyr Zelensky's diplomatic tour across Europe, where he is engaging with various leaders to discuss his unpublicized \"victory plan.\" Zelensky's journey began in London with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, followed by a meeting with NATO's Secretary General. He then traveled to Paris for discussions with President Emmanuel Macron and is scheduled to visit Rome and Berlin.
In a somber development, Ukrainian officials reported the death of journalist Viktoriya Roshchyna, who had been detained by Russian authorities. Roshchyna, who disappeared in August 2022 while covering a story in Russian-controlled East Ukraine, was recognized posthumously for her bravery in journalism. She would have turned 28 this month.
In the United States, new unemployment data revealed a rise in claims, reaching 258,000—the highest since August 2023. Meanwhile, inflation rates have eased to 2.4%, the lowest since early 2021, and the Social Security Administration announced a 2.5% cost of living adjustment for the upcoming year.
TD Bank has agreed to a historic $3 billion settlement with U.S. authorities over money laundering violations, marking the largest penalty ever imposed on a bank for such offenses. Attorney General Merrick Garland stated that the bank's lax practices facilitated the movement of hundreds of millions of dollars through its accounts.
In cultural news, South Korean author Han Kang was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, recognized for her profound exploration of historical traumas and the fragility of human existence. Han is the first South Korean and the first Asian woman to receive this honor.
In sports, Rafael Nadal announced his retirement from professional tennis, set to conclude after the Davis Cup in November. The 38-year-old leaves behind a remarkable legacy, including 22 Grand Slam singles titles.
Lastly, Ethel Kennedy, widow of Robert F. Kennedy and a prominent advocate for social justice, has passed away at the age of 96. The Kennedy family expressed their comfort in knowing she is reunited with her late husband.