Current Events This Week: June 2024

Updated November 21, 2024 | Infoplease Staff

World News | U.S. News | Disaster News | Science & Technology News

It's a busy world out there, so that’s why we’ve boiled it all down to our top stories for each week of June 2024.

We collect current events of the week starting and ending on a Friday, so make sure you check back at the end of every week to keep up-to-date on what's happening in the world and the U.S., including politics, disasters, science & technology, and military actions.

Our Top Stories for the Week of May 31, 2024
Our Top Stories for the Week of June 7, 2024
Our Top Stories for the Week of June 14, 2024
Our Top Stories for the Week of June 21, 2024

It’s been a busy week from general elections in Mexico to Starship’s successful flight. Who has time to keep track of it all? That’s why we’ve boiled it all down to our top stories of the week.

Global Politics

Robert Fico Discharged From The Hospital: On Friday, May 31, 2024, Slovakia's Prime Minister, Robert Fico, was released from the hospital after surviving an assassination attempt. He is healing at his house in Bratislava. The incident, which was previously thought to be politically motivated, is now suspected of being carried out by a third party. Fico's initiatives have raised fears about Slovakia's autocratic path.^[1]
North Korea Sends Filth To South Korea: On Sunday, June 2, 2024, North Korea began firing garbage balloons toward South Korea, with 600 spotted as of Sunday morning. This comes after a campaign launched earlier this week to mail garbage and dung as "gifts of sincerity." South Korea denounced the conduct as "petty and low-grade behavior" and warned of repercussions. Tensions remain, with North Korea claiming to be practicing free speech.^[2]
Mexico Elects First Female President: On Monday, June 3, 2024, Claudia Sheinbaum, a socialist climate scientist and former mayor of Mexico City, is elected Mexico's first female president, inheriting López Obrador's agenda. Sheinbaum, who promises inclusive administration and is the first Jewish candidate to lead, receives between 58.3% and 60.7% of the vote. The violent election underlines the issues in Mexico's political scene. Sheinbaum's victory establishes a historical precedent and represents a huge change in Mexico's typically masculine society.^[3]
Narendra Modi Wins Indian General Election: On Tuesday, June 4, 2024, Narendra Modi wins a third term in India's national elections, but his BJP party falls short of a clear majority, giving the NDA coalition a 292-seat triumph. Critics see this as a response to Modi's divided administration style, highlighting displeasure with his leadership. Despite remaining in power, Modi faces problems in executing economic reforms despite stock market downturns, signaling a change in India's political environment.^[4]

Sources: [1] The Guardian [2] The Guardian [3] The Guardian [4] CNN

Fatal Events

Mass Shooting In Ohio: On Sunday, June 2, 2024, A mass shooting in Akron, Ohio, killed one person and wounded 24. The event happened during a birthday celebration when gunshots erupted. No arrests have been made, and the inquiry remains continuing. Akron's mayor has offered a $22,500 reward for information that leads to an arrest. Many injuries were not life-threatening, but others were critical. The event highlights gun violence in the United States.^[1]
Michigan Tornado Kills Infant: On Thursday, June 6, 2024, a two-year-old kid died in Michigan when a tree collapsed into their home during a storm and landed on them while they were asleep. Firefighters used chainsaws and high-pressure airbags to remove the roof and branches. Another kid and his grandmother who were present were uninjured. The storm was a spin-up that did not emerge on radar in time to trigger a warning. A secondary tornado struck at least two homes in Livonia, Maryland.^[2]

Sources: [1] BBC [2] BBC

In Other News

USPS Hikes Stamp Price: On Friday, May 31, 2024, USPS intends to raise first-class mail stamp rates to 73 cents starting from July 14, resulting in a 7.8% rise in mailing services product costs. The proposal also includes a 25% fee increase for high-volume shippers that submit shipments for regional delivery via Parcel Select. The 10-year reorganization plan seeks to remove losses of $160 billion.^[1]
Biden Issues Directive To Limit Immigration: On Tuesday, June 4, 2024, US President Joe Biden issued an executive order temporarily closing the US-Mexico border to asylum seekers seeking to pass between legitimate ports of entry. The measure raises the bar for asylum requests, except for certain categories such as human trafficking victims and unaccompanied minors. Biden blames the measure on Republican resistance and vows to address border problems amid popular outrage. Scheduled border appointments are excluded.^[2]
Starship Makes Successful Flight: On Thursday, June 4, 2024, SpaceX's Starship rocket completed its test flight, traveling over 130 miles at speeds surpassing 16,000 mph before landing in the Indian Ocean. The test flight highlights the rocket's capabilities, which NASA intends to employ to deliver humans to Mars. In 2021, NASA chose Starship as the preferred lander for the Artemis mission, which aims to return humans to the moon and Mars. SpaceX described the successful return as its crowning achievement.^[3]

Sources: [1] Reuters [2] The Guardian [3] The Guardian

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It’s been a busy week from fatal French protests to a fire disaster in Kuwait. Who has time to keep track of it all? That’s why we’ve boiled it all down to our top stories of the week.

Fatal Events

Attack On Denmark’s Prime Minister: On Friday, June 7, 2024, a man was detained after assaulting Denmark's Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, in Copenhagen. The event happened just before Denmark's EU elections. European officials, including Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, denounced the attack and wished Frederiksen a quick recovery. The incident came only weeks after Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico was shot and wounded.^[1]
French Protest Leads To Injuries: On Saturday, June 8, 2024, A demonstration in southern France resulted in five injuries and fights between police and masked protestors opposing a road project. Despite a prohibition, thousands of people attended the demonstration to stop the project from moving forward. The demonstrators claimed that the expansion would ruin wetlands, farming, forests, and water supplies. Authorities denounced the assaults, but protest organizers want to stop the project by the end of 2025.^[2]
Shark Attack Swimmers In Florida: On Saturday, June 8, 2024, Three shark attacks along Florida's Gulf Coast have resulted in enhanced patrols and temporary beach closures. These incidents included the amputation of a woman's limb and the assault on two adolescent girls. Despite these events, authorities emphasize that they are not rare and advise care while swimming. According to the University of Florida's International Shark Attack File, many shark attacks are unprovoked and seldom lethal.^[3]
Fire Disaster In Kuwait: On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, A residential building fire in Kuwait killed at least 49 people and wounded many more. The exact reason is uncertain; however, the congested building was compounded by more than 20 cooking gas tanks and combustible objects. Most fatalities were caused by suffocation, and the figure might grow further. Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences and help. Kuwaiti officials are probing the building owner's irresponsibility. The event highlighted legal, discriminatory, and safety problems for migrant labor.^[4]

Sources: [1] CNN [2] The Guardian [3] BBC [4] CNN

Global Politics

New York Lawmakers Pass Social Media Bill: On Saturday, June 8, 2024, Lawmakers in New York enacted legislation to safeguard kids from hazardous social media information. The proposals prevent platforms from exposing users to algorithmic material without parental agreement and limit data gathering and selling. Governor Kathy Hochul is likely to approve the legislation, which seeks to address juvenile mental health issues and promote a safer online environment.^[1]
Benny Gantz Resigns From Israeli Cabinet: On Sunday, June 9, 2024, Benny Gantz, a member of Israel's military cabinet, resigned from Benjamin Netanyahu's Cabinet over disputes over the Gaza warfare strategy. Gantz accused Netanyahu of putting personal interests above post-war plans. Despite Netanyahu's call for unity, Gantz claimed that quitting the cabinet was essential. With Gantz's departure, the war cabinet now only represents Netanyahu's Likud party, which might influence future combat choices. Gantz's action satisfies Netanyahu's demand to prepare fresh war preparations by June 8.^[2]
Georgia Meloni Wins EU Vote: On Monday, June 10, 2024, Italy's Arch-Conservative Brothers of Italy party received 28.8% of the vote in the European parliamentary election, a substantial rise over prior elections. The governing coalition, which included right-wing groupings, gained more than 47% support, representing a significant increase. Forza Italia, headed by Silvio Berlusconi, finished fourth with 9.7% of the vote, surpassing the anti-immigrant League's 9.1%. This outcome suggests internal turmoil among the far-right group.^[3]

Sources: [1] Reuters [2] CNN [3] Reuters

In Other News

Baltimore Shipping Channel Reopens: On Tuesday, June 11, 2024, The Port of Baltimore has reopened after an 11-week closure due to the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse. The tunnel was rebuilt to its original size after the Dali ship's collision with the bridge, which killed six people. The rehabilitation included 50,000 tons of rubble, thousands of salvage responders, and specialized equipment. The bridge's reconstruction is expected to take four years and cost up to $1.9 billion.^[1]
Malawian Official Missing In Flight: On Tuesday, June 11, 2024, Malawi's Vice President, Saulos Chilima, and nine others were declared missing after their jet failed to arrive as planned. The jet left from Lilongwe and was scheduled to land at Mzuzu International Airport. President Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera canceled plans and launched a search and rescue mission. Air traffic control recommended against landing due to low visibility and inclement weather. The United States has pledged military help.^[2]
Russian-Ukraine War Accelerates Climate Change: On Thursday, June 134, 2024, a recent report revealed that Russia's conflict in Ukraine has resulted in about 175 million tonnes of CO2e, more than the total emissions of 175 countries. The battle resulted in a $32 billion climate reparations debt for the first 24 months of the war. The United Nations General Assembly has called on Russia to pay Ukraine, leading the Council of Europe to establish a registry of injury.^[3]

Sources: [1] BBC [2] CNN [3] The Guardian

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It’s been a busy week from the shipwreck in the Mediterranean to a shootout in Detroit. Who has time to keep track of it all? That’s why we’ve boiled it all down to our top stories of the week.

Fatal Events

Waterpark Shootout In Detroit: On Sunday, June 16, 2024, A 42-year-old man opened fire at a water park near Detroit, hurting nine people, including two children, before killing himself when approached by officers. The incident, which was described as random, happened at the Brooklands Plaza Splash Pad in Rochester Hills, Michigan. The gunman, who was traced down to a neighboring residence, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The event raises worries about gun violence in the region.^[1]
Shipwreck In The Mediterranean: On Monday, June 17, 2024, Two shipwrecks off the Italian coast claimed at least 11 lives and left many more missing. The first incidence included eleven bodies aboard a wooden boat transporting migrants from Tunisia. The rescuers came too late for those who died. The second event in the Ionian Sea left 66 individuals missing, including 26 children. The terrible occurrences underline the hazardous conditions under which refugees travel into Europe.^[2]
Holy Pilgrims Dies From Extreme Heat: On Thursday, June 20, 2024, Over a thousand individuals died during the 2024 Islamic Hajj journey, with more than half of them unregistered. The unrelenting heat and physical strains of the pilgrimage—a pillar of Islam—have caused many pilgrims who lack sufficient shade and cooling facilities to suffer heatstroke; despite steps to reduce heat dangers. The international authorities and Saudi officials are working together to ensure that the deceased are treated respectfully and in line with their families' requests.^[3]

Sources: [1] Reuters [2] The Guardian [3] The Guardian

Global Politics

Ramaphosa Re-Elected: On Friday, June 14, 2024, South Africa's President, Cyril Ramaphosa, was re-elected following a historic coalition deal between his African National Congress (ANC) and the opposition Democratic Alliance (DA). The alliance, created after the ANC lost its legislative majority, intends to solve economic difficulties and strengthen governance. Ramaphosa's leadership style, which emphasizes centrism and collaboration, has been critical in managing South Africa's complicated political terrain and economic challenges.^[1]
Prisoner Exchange Between Iran And Sweden: On Saturday, June 15, 2024, Sweden and Iran negotiated a prisoner swap, freeing two Swedish nationals held in Iran and Hamid Noury, a former Iranian official convicted in Sweden of war crimes. The swap was verified by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, who voiced worry that Iran was using the inmates as negotiating chips. Critics, notably Iran's National Council of Resistance, blasted Sweden for giving in to Tehran's hostage-taking tactics.^[2]
Putin Visits North Korea: On Tuesday, June 18, 2024, Russia's President, Vladimir Putin, paid a visit to North Korea, underscoring increasing relations and Russia's desire to acquire weapons from Pyongyang amid the Ukraine crisis. Putin was greeted cordially by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who participated in lively conversations before traveling together to the Kumsusan State Guest House. This is Putin's first visit to North Korea since 2000, and Kim has not hosted an international leader since the Covid-19 epidemic.^[3]

Sources: [1] The Guardian [2] CNN [3] CNN

In Other News

New York Court Denies Trump’s Appeal Of Gag Order: On Tuesday, June 18, 2024, Former President Donald Trump's legal efforts to break a gag order imposed during his trial for Stormy Daniels and accounting fraud in New York have failed. The state supreme court rejected to consider Trump's appeal, citing no significant constitutional problems. Trump's attorneys claimed that the order violated his right to political speech, but the court maintained the limitation. The gag order remains in place as Trump awaits punishment.^[1]
The U.S. Senate Passes Nuclear Advancement Bill: On Wednesday, June 19, 2024, The US Senate passed the ADVANCE Act, a bipartisan initiative to hasten nuclear energy implementation. The House of Representatives passed a measure that aims to speed up permitting processes and create incentives for innovative nuclear technology. Democrats favor nuclear development to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change, but Republicans see it as providing dependable power and job growth. The Act includes initiatives to cut regulatory costs and accelerate nuclear facility licensing.^[2]
Microsoft Overtakes Nvidia As Most Valuable Company: On Thursday, June 20, 2024, Microsoft reclaimed the title of the world's most valuable firm, beating Nvidia, whose share price fell by more than 3.5%. Nvidia's stock market capitalization was $3.34 trillion, but its share price fell to $130.78, lowering its worth to around $3.22 trillion. Microsoft, Apple, and Wedbush Securities are the three front-runners in the race to become the world's most valuable firm, with some analysts forecasting severe rivalry over the next year.^[3]

Sources: [1] The Guardian [2] Reuters [3] BBC

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It’s been a busy week from airstrikes in Gaza to protests in Kenya. Who has time to keep track of it all? That’s why we’ve boiled it all down to our top stories of the week.

Fatal Events

Israel Strikes Gaza: On Saturday, June 22, 2024, Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City have killed scores of Palestinians, with initial reports indicating casualties ranging from 38 to 42. The bombings targeted Hamas' military facilities, which Hamas described as harming civilians. Emergency services rushed to the destruction, capturing images of demolished homes and debris-filled streets. The incident has spurred calls for an independent probe, underlining regional tensions and violence.^[1]
Mass Shooting In Arkansas Supermarket: On Saturday, June 22, 2024, A shooting at the Mad Butcher grocery shop in Fordyce, Arkansas, killed three citizens and injured ten more, including two police officers. The suspect was also hurt and taken into police custody. Arkansas State Police Director Mike Hagar acknowledged the casualties and applauded the prompt reaction. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders expressed appreciation and prayed for the victims. The event resulted in individuals in non-life-threatening to serious condition.^[2]
Gunmen Rampage In Russia: On Sunday, June 23, 2024, Gunmen targeted churches, synagogues, and police stations in Dagestan, Russia, killing at least 15 cops and four civilians. Six militants were slain. The region has a history of separatist conflict. Russian officials recognized the shooters as members of an international terrorist organization. Three days of mourning have been announced, and financial aid is being distributed.^[3]
Battery Factory Explodes: On Monday, June 24, 2024, A fire at the Aricell company in Hwaseong, South Korea, claimed the lives of at least 22 persons after lithium batteries burst. The fire produced smoke clouds and explosions, forcing a piece of the factory roof to fall. The facility is a significant manufacturer of lithium batteries, which are used in electric cars and computers. Eight were injured, with two in severe condition.^[4]

Sources: [1] The Guardian [2] Reuters [3] CNN [4] BBC

National Reforms

Namibia Court Lifts Ban On Gay Sex: On Friday, June 21, 2024, Namibia's High Court ruled that laws prohibiting same-sex acts are unconstitutional, underlining prejudice and fear among homosexual men. Although Namibia does not have any laws prohibiting same-sex relationships between women, weddings between same-sex couples are permitted if performed overseas under particular conditions. The verdict is a step forward for Namibia's LGBTQ population in terms of equality and human rights, similar to South Africa's post-apartheid era.^[1]
Jullian Assange Freed To Australia: On Wednesday, June 26, 2024, Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, pleaded guilty to a single espionage charge, bringing an end to his 12-year struggle against extradition to the United States. Assange, who served five years in a British prison and seven years at the Ecuadorian embassy in London, was freed and will return to Australia later this week. The plea agreement ends a protracted judicial battle, allowing Assange to avoid additional incarceration in the United States and return to Australia as a free man.^[2]
Kenyan President Withdraws Tax Bill: On Wednesday, June 26, 2024, Kenya's President, William Ruto, withdrew a contentious budget measure aimed at boosting taxes, following violent demonstrations that resulted in at least 23 deaths and hundreds of injuries. Ruto acknowledged the public's overwhelming objection and stated that he would not sign the 2024 financial bill, a big defeat for him. To calm the situation, Ruto advocated communication with young people, civic society, religious organizations, and professional associations, as well as austerity measures to decrease government spending.^[3]

Sources: [1] BBC [2] CNN [3] The Guardian

United States Judicial Rulings

Suspects Of Abuse Prohibited From Guns: On Friday, June 21, 2024, The Supreme Court preserved a 30-year-old statute that prohibits those under restraining orders for domestic violence from owning weapons, delivering a rare victory for gun control proponents. Chief Justice John Roberts emphasized that disarming persons who pose a danger of physical violence is reasonable and does not violate the Second Amendment.^[1]
Louisiana Families Files Lawsuit Against Ten Commandments: On Monday, June 24, 2024, Louisiana families and human rights organizations launched a federal lawsuit to challenge the state's legislation forcing public schools to display the Ten Commandments. The lawsuit challenges HB71, a bill signed by Governor Jeff Landry that requires the Ten Commandments to be prominently posted in all public school classrooms. The plaintiffs claim that the statute is unconstitutional, violates Supreme Court precedent and the First Amendment's establishment and free exercise sections, and conveys a divisive message.^[2]
Supreme Court Narrows Reach Of Federal Corruption Law: On Wednesday, June 26, 2024, The United States Supreme Court reversed former Portage, Indiana mayor James Snyder's corruption conviction, possibly complicating future federal corruption trials of state and municipal leaders. The conservative justices overturned an earlier court judgment, declaring that federal law does not criminalize state and municipal officials who receive gifts. Snyder was first accused of corruptly soliciting cash for government contracts.^[3]

Sources: [1] BBC [2] The Guardian [3] Reuters

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Do you want to find out about the rest of the events that happened around the world in previous weeks?

For everything that happened around the world last month, check out Current Events This Week: May 2024 to discover more and keep on top of the news. And if you enjoyed this article, why not drop a line to let us know, or share it with others who are curious about the events of this week!

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