Maher on Trump’s account of dinner together: ‘Bulls—‘

Two major cities reported scattered protests after a controversial government policy sparked renewed debate on civil liberties. Police said a few demonstrators clashed with officers, resulting in several injuries and temporary road closures. Authorities vowed to investigate the incidents while pledging to protect peaceful assembly.

In economic news, markets opened higher following optimistic earnings reports from several multinational firms. Analysts cited improved consumer spending and expectations of a steadier inflation trajectory in the coming months. Traders cautioned that volatility could rise if geopolitical tensions escalate.

In science, a space agency announced the successful completion of a high-altitude test mission for a climate-monitoring satellite. The prototype performed as expected, delivering high-resolution atmospheric data that researchers say could improve weather forecasting and disaster response planning.