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WASHINGTON (AP) – Taiwan needs to purchase American weapons to ensure its self-defense in the face of a growing threat from Beijing, the island’s top diplomat in the U.S. said, adding that he has seen no change in Washington’s policy toward the self-governing island that China claims as its own.

Today in History: June 18, War of 1812 begins

Today is Thursday, June 18, the 169th day of 2026. There are 196 days left in the year. Today in history: On June 18, 1812, the War of 1812 began as the United States Congress approved, and President James Madison signed, a declaration of war against Britain.

 

Editorials from The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, The Guardian and others

Excerpts from recent editorials in the United States and abroad:

Vance, skeptical of foreign wars, becomes face of deal to end war

WASHINGTON (AP) – JD Vance was supposed to be spending the week promoting his new book, the kind of event a potential presidential candidate like the vice president typically uses to speak to a wide audience about his life and values ahead of a campaign.

UK special election could see Andy Burnham replace Keir Starmer

LONDON (AP) – Keir Starmer isn’t on the ballot, but the U.K. prime minister’s future is on the line in a special election on Thursday. Voters in the Makerfield district of northwest England are electing a new lawmaker, and the leading contender is Andy Burnham of the governing Labour Party.

Obama Center opens in Chicago with a call to defend democracy

Former President Barack Obama, joined by three former presidents, celebrated the opening of his presidential museum in Chicago in an extraordinary event Thursday that brought together world leaders, A-list celebrities, athletes and other internationally known figures.

Today in History. A video snapshot of what changed our world on this day over the years.

Today in History. A video snapshot of what changed our world on this day over the years.