July 4th events threatened by heat wave. And, Russia strikes on Ukraine’s capital

Revelers hold American flags as they watch fireworks explode during the annual Independence Day Celebration in the predominantly Latino community of Bell Gardens on July 2, 2026 in Bell Gardens, Calif. The event was canceled last year due to resident safety concerns amid widespread ICE raids across Los Angeles County.

July 4th events for America’s milestone birthday are being threatened by a brutal heat wave. And, Russia has struck Ukraine’s capital, killing several people in what it calls retaliatory attacks.

(Image credit: Mario Tama)