Context:

Central Texas was devastated by catastrophic floods that have claimed over 100 lives, with local officials facing scrutiny over their preparedness and response. In Los Angeles, a heavy presence of federal immigration agents in MacArthur Park sparked outrage among residents and criticism from the city's mayor. A federal judge temporarily blocked a Trump administration policy aimed at defunding Planned Parenthood, potentially averting the closure of numerous clinics. The U.S. decided to resume sending defensive weapons to Ukraine following President Trump's discussions with Russian and Ukrainian leaders, despite previous pauses in shipments. Meanwhile, the Department of Veterans Affairs plans to reduce its workforce by nearly 30,000 through non-layoff measures, assuring that veteran care will not be impacted.

Dive Deeper:

• Local officials in Kerr County, Texas, are under scrutiny for failing to issue timely evacuation orders before devastating floods struck, although warnings and evacuation orders were issued by a neighboring county. The floods have resulted in over 100 fatalities, and a search continues for two dozen missing persons.

• A large force of federal immigration agents, supported by the California National Guard, conducted operations in MacArthur Park, Los Angeles, which incited public outrage and was condemned by Mayor Karen Bass as an unnecessary show of force.

• The Trump administration's attempt to bar federal funding for family planning services led to a lawsuit by Planned Parenthood, prompting a federal judge to temporarily block the policy, thus preventing the immediate closure of clinics across the nation.

• After initially pausing, the U.S. resumed defensive weapon shipments to Ukraine, with President Trump citing a lack of progress in ceasefire talks with President Putin and following discussions with Ukrainian President Zelensky.

• Veterans Affairs announced a reduction of nearly 30,000 employees through attrition and other non-layoff methods, reversing an earlier plan for more extensive layoffs, while ensuring that this would not affect veteran services.

• Costco introduced a new benefit for its highest-tier membership, valued at $130 annually, expanding its offerings for premium customers.

• Singer Katy Perry and actor Orlando Bloom ended their relationship three years post-engagement, while Kelly Clarkson postponed her Las Vegas residency, citing personal devastation over the delay.