Italy's Health Ministry Warns of Extreme Heat

Italy is experiencing its fourth heatwave of the year, prompting the nation's health ministry to issue warnings for dangerous weather conditions in 27 of its largest cities. Temperatures in some areas are forecast to soar to nearly 40 degrees Celsius, with no significant cooling expected for at least another week.

Authorities are advising residents to avoid direct sunlight between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. They also recommend staying hydrated and wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. The extreme heat has already claimed four lives in the past few days, according to reports.

In separate news, a German defense company, Rheinmetall, faces significant financial losses after the German government canceled an order for six new warships. The deal, initially valued at 10 billion euros, could have risen to 18 billion euros. Rheinmetall's sales expectations for the year have been lowered by 300 million euros following the cancellation, causing its stock to drop 18 percent.

Additionally, a former neo-Nazi, Joshua Bonehill-Paine, has withdrawn his candidacy for a local election in the UK after facing widespread criticism. He was previously convicted of racial harassment and served a prison sentence for antisemitic posts. Despite initial defense from the Conservative Party leader, Bonehill-Paine will now advise the party on combating extremism.

Separately, an African cargo ship named 'Mera Queen,' flying the flag of Guinea-Bissau, was hit by a Russian attack in the Black Sea late Wednesday, killing one crew member. Russia's Defense Ministry confirmed hitting two cargo ships, claiming one was also carrying military equipment.