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National news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
NationalChancellor Announces Mexico-U.S. Bilateral Meeting Following Conversation with Rubio
MEXICO CITY – Mexico's Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Roberto Velasco, announced on Tuesday that his phone conversation on Monday with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in which they reviewed cooperation on security, migration, and trade, took place in a "very cordial, very respectful" atmosphere. "Yesterday we had a call with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio (...). A conversation in a very cordial, very respectful environment," Velasco stated, noting that the dialogue lasted about half an hour. During a presidential press conference, he explained that one of the main topics was cooperation on border security and combating organized crime. "We discussed the cooperation we have in security matters, about naturally moving forward on the principles we have talked about many times under the border security and law enforcement cooperation program," he indicated. Velasco announced that a bilateral working meeting with representatives from both governments will take place this week in Mexico City to follow up on those efforts. Regarding the results achieved, he highlighted that Mexico reported progress in combating drug trafficking and irregular migration. "There has been a 76% decrease in fentanyl seizures at the border from the beginning of President (of Mexico, Claudia) Sheinbaum's administration to the last month for which we have records," he asserted. He also noted that both countries will continue to work on migration issues "always with respect for human rights." The chancellor also mentioned that they discussed the review of the Mexico-United States-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and other trade matters. "We talked about the importance of reaching a good outcome with the ongoing discussions on this matter," he said. According to Velasco, Rubio informed him that he is personally following up on these issues and that both will remain in contact to explore a future in-person meeting. The call comes amid tensions between the two countries. Last week, Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum urged U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson to respect the country’s internal affairs following a series of public exchanges related to security and the fight against drug trafficking.
NationalAmid Tensions, U.S. Secretary of War Plans Visit to Guantanamo Naval Base
U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth will travel this Wednesday to the Guantanamo Naval Base in Cuba and to Tampa, Florida, to meet with troops stationed in Cuban territory and with units from Central Command (CENTCOM), the U.S. government announced in an official statement. Although the reason for the trip to both locations has not been specified, this move comes amid tensions between Havana and Washington, following a U.S. military helicopter crash in the Strait of Hormuz during a ceasefire with Iran. This marks the second visit by a Trump administration official to the U.S. territory at Guantanamo Naval Base in the past 15 days. General Francis L. Donovan, head of U.S. Southern Command, was in Cuba on May 29 to discuss issues such as 'the safety of military personnel and their families and operational readiness, along with base officials.' Donovan also conducted an analysis of the 'perimeter security of the naval base' during the meeting, which included representatives from the Cuban military. President Donald Trump has openly threatened to take control of Cuba, stating that the island could be his next military target after Iran.
NationalSheinbaum Questions Her Attendance at Zócalo Fan Fest
MEXICO CITY – President Claudia Sheinbaum cast doubt on her attendance at the Fan Fest organized in the Zócalo to celebrate the World Cup, pending the developments of protests by teachers and other groups in the city center. "We will see how things unfold with the teachers and some other groups, because I need to stay attentive to that, obviously. There is a team that is constantly monitoring this. But we will see how it develops," the president stated during her morning press conference when asked about her potential presence at the event. The Mexican government has prepared a Fan Fest in the Plaza de la Constitución to follow the World Cup matches, which Sheinbaum had previously assured she would attend to witness the opening game between Mexico and South Africa, after giving her ticket to an indigenous girl to attend the match at the Estadio Ciudad de México. According to official information, the Zócalo Fan Fest could accommodate up to 60,000 fans on match days, with free access and operating throughout the tournament. Regarding the event's organization, the Mexican leader confirmed that logistics for attendee access are already defined. "It is already known how they will enter (the tourists)," she noted, referring to visitors and content creators who have expressed concerns on social media about access to the Zócalo.
NationalSheinbaum Questions Her Attendance at the Zócalo Fan Fest
MEXICO CITY – President Claudia Sheinbaum cast doubt on her attendance at the Fan Fest organized in the capital's Zócalo for the World Cup on Tuesday, pending the developments of protests by teachers and other groups in the city center. "We will see how things unfold with the teachers and some other groups, because I need to stay alert to that, obviously. So, there is a team that is constantly monitoring this. But we will see how it develops," the president stated during her morning press conference when asked about her potential presence at the event. The Mexican government has prepared a Fan Fest in the Plaza de la Constitución to follow the World Cup matches, which Sheinbaum had previously stated she would attend to witness the opening game between Mexico and South Africa, after giving her ticket to an Indigenous girl to attend the match at the Estadio Ciudad de México. According to official information, the Zócalo Fan Fest could host up to 60,000 fans on match days, with free access and operating throughout the tournament. Regarding the event's organization, the Mexican leader assured that there is already a defined logistics plan for attendee access. "It is already known how they will enter (the tourists)," she noted, referring to visitors and content creators who have expressed doubts on social media about access to the Zócalo.
NationalTrump vows response against Iran after downing of US helicopter
President Trump on Tuesday blamed Iran for shooting down an American Apache helicopter overnight and said a response was necessary. “I have just been informed by our Great Military that last night the Iranians shot down one of our highly sophisticated Apache Helicopters while patrolling over the Strait of Hormuz,” Trump posted on his social
NationalFunding Package for ICE and Border Patrol Approved
WASHINGTON — After weeks of setbacks and delays, the Republican-controlled House of Representatives narrowly approved a package of about $70 billion on Tuesday to fund Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Border Patrol until the end of President Donald Trump's term. The vote concluded with 214 in favor and 212 against. The package, titled the *Secure America Act*, was approved by the Senate last week and now heads to the president's desk for expected signing. The approval in the House ends months of tensions and partisan disputes over the funding of immigration enforcement operations.
NationalFunding Package for ICE and Border Patrol Approved
WASHINGTON — After weeks of setbacks and delays, the Republican-controlled House of Representatives narrowly approved a package of about $70 billion on Tuesday to fund Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Border Patrol through the end of President Donald Trump's term. The vote concluded with 214 in favor and 212 against. The package, titled the 'Secure America Act,' was approved by the Senate last week and now moves to the president's desk for expected signing. The approval in the House ends months of tensions and partisan disputes over funding for immigration enforcement operations.
NationalKansas City Showcases World Cup Counter-Drone Defense to Federal Leadership
Army Brig. Gen. Matt Ross of Joint Interagency Task Force 401 visited Kansas City, Missouri, to discuss counter-drone measures for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The task force has allocated over $100 million to enhance drone defense capabilities across 11 host cities. The visit included meetings with local law enforcement and safety partners, focusing on integrating air domain awareness and real-time drone response into security planning. Kansas City officials emphasized the importance of interagency coordination to ensure the safety of fans and facilities during the event. The federal government is actively supporting these preparations through various agencies.
NationalUS-Commissioned Study Identifies Alcohol Risks, But Government Excludes It from Guidelines
An independent study commissioned by the administration of former U.S. President Joe Biden to investigate health risks associated with alcohol was published on Tuesday, after the administration of President Donald Trump chose not to highlight the researchers' findings in new dietary recommendations, amid pressures from the alcohol industry and a congressional committee. The study's conclusions, published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, aligned with years of research, indicating that health risks increase with just one drink a day and that no level of alcohol consumption has a protective effect on mortality. Even levels considered 'moderate' raise the risk of premature death and over 200 diseases, including heart disease and cancer, the researchers found. The new study was one of two government reviews intended to help guide new dietary guidelines. Released earlier this year, the guidelines advised consuming 'less alcohol for better overall health.' The authors of the independently released study argue that this did not provide detailed practical advice on the risks of drinking.
NationalBad Bunny and Pope Leo XIV Hold Private Meeting in Madrid
Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny met with Pope Leo XIV at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, Spain, as confirmed by several Spanish media outlets. Although images of the meeting have not yet been released, the newspaper El País cited a Vatican source confirming that the meeting was private. According to reports, the singer was accompanied by family members and greeted the pontiff before he left the stadium for the city of Barcelona, where he continues his visit to the country. Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, the real name of the urban music artist, is currently on a series of concerts in Spain as part of his world tour 'Debí TiRar MáS Fotos WoRLd Tour.' The artist kicked off the tour in Barcelona and is currently performing in Madrid, where he has sold out approximately 10 shows at the Riyad Air Metropolitano Stadium.
NationalMiami Airport Denies Entry to World Cup Referee; He Will Miss the Tournament
Somali referee Omar Artan will not officiate at the 2026 World Cup after being denied entry to the United States. The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) office stated on Monday that a Somali citizen planning to referee at the World Cup was denied entry upon arriving at Miami International Airport from Istanbul on Saturday. Although the CBP statement did not name the individual, Artan is the only World Cup referee from Somalia. FIFA later confirmed on Monday that Artan would not be able to train and officiate at the World Cup and issued a statement on behalf of the referee. 'Despite the circumstances, I am in good spirits and focused on the upcoming challenges in my career as a referee,' Artan said in the statement. 'I would like to thank FIFA and the African federation for all their support and I promise to maintain my level of officiating while I concentrate on the future. I want to thank the football family for their messages and wish my colleagues the best of luck during the World Cup, and I hope to join them again in future competitions.'
NationalFor $750, you could have expedited visa interviews at certain embassies, according to AP
The U.S. State Department is launching a pilot program from July 1 to December 31 that offers expedited visa interviews for business and tourist applicants. For a fee of $750, in addition to the standard $185 application fee, applicants can schedule an interview within 10 days at select U.S. embassies and consulates. The specific locations for this service will be announced before the program starts. This initiative may address delays caused by previous immigration policies, which have led to long wait times for visa interviews. However, paying the premium fee does not guarantee visa approval.
NationalUS Helicopter Crashes Near Strait of Hormuz; Trump Says Pilots Are Fine
A U.S. Army Apache helicopter crashed near the Strait of Hormuz, with President Donald Trump confirming that both pilots are safe. The incident occurred while the helicopter was patrolling regional waters, and the cause is currently under investigation. U.S. Central Command reported that the pilots were rescued within two hours and are in stable condition. The crash comes amid heightened tensions in the region following recent conflicts between Iran and Israel. Trump expressed optimism about potential negotiations with Iran, suggesting a deal could be reached soon, despite ongoing challenges in achieving a lasting ceasefire.
NationalTeachers Plan to Protest Around Azteca Stadium During World Cup Opening Match
The National Coordinator of Education Workers (CNTE) plans to protest outside the Estadio Azteca during the opening match of the 2026 World Cup. Pedro Hernández, leader of CNTE's Section 9, stated that hundreds of teachers will gather with banners and slogans as Mexico faces South Africa on June 11. The protest aims to demand changes to the 2007 ISSSTE Law and educational reforms, while ensuring no confrontation with fans or security. The federal government has expressed willingness to dialogue with CNTE, urging peaceful demonstrations that do not disrupt students or the public, as the city prepares for over 5 million tourists.
NationalDonald Trump Booed at Madison Square Garden During National Anthem
Donald Trump faced loud boos at Madison Square Garden on Monday when his presence was announced during the national anthem at the NBA Finals game between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs. Invited by Knicks owner James Dolan, Trump became the first sitting U.S. president to attend an NBA Finals. Despite some applause, the boos from the crowd were significantly louder. New York authorities implemented strict security measures, including early arrival requirements and no backpacks. Since returning to power in 2025, Trump has frequently attended major sporting events, including the U.S. Open and the Super Bowl.
NationalJudge Strikes Down $100,000 Fee for H-1B Visas Imposed by Trump
A federal judge has overturned the $100,000 fee imposed on new H-1B visas by the Trump administration. Judge Leo Sorokin in Boston ruled in favor of 20 states that challenged the policy, stating that the executive branch exceeded its authority and violated the Administrative Procedure Act. The fee aimed to deter foreign workers from taking jobs from Americans, but it raised concerns among employers and workers. The H-1B visas are typically issued for high-skilled jobs, with a significant number going to Indian workers. The ruling may lead to further legal challenges across different circuit courts.
National"We will not fall for provocations": Sheinbaum assures that the World Cup opening will be peaceful
Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum assured that the opening of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place peacefully, emphasizing that her administration will not resort to repression in response to potential provocations during planned protests. During her morning press conference, Sheinbaum stated that federal authorities are working to ensure the normal development of World Cup-related events. She highlighted ongoing mobilizations by the National Coordinator of Education Workers (CNTE) and other groups demanding better wages and working conditions. Sheinbaum reiterated her commitment to dialogue and maintaining tranquility, especially in light of the upcoming mega-demonstration on June 11 near the Estadio Ciudad de México.
NationalU.S. Citizenship to Be Revoked for 17 Individuals; Cases Include Cuba, Colombia, and Mexico
The Department of Justice has announced plans to revoke U.S. citizenship for 17 individuals, including naturalized citizens from Cuba, Colombia, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. The announcement, made on Monday, states that these individuals face serious criminal charges such as sexual abuse, drug distribution, and electronic fraud. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized that citizenship can be revoked if it was obtained illegally or by concealing significant facts. The Department of Homeland Security also reiterated its commitment to enforcing laws against foreign criminals. The affected individuals include Leidys Delmas Garcia from Cuba and Armando Mendoza from Mexico, among others.
NationalNASA Reveals Names of Astronauts for Artemis III Mission This Tuesday
NASA will unveil the astronauts who will be aboard Artemis III, a crewed mission scheduled for 2027 in which four astronauts will launch aboard the Orion spacecraft, propelled by the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. The announcement will take place on June 9 at 11 a.m. ET. NASA will provide details about the design and crew of the Artemis III mission closer to the planned launch next year. On April 1, 2026, the launch of Artemis II took place, marking the first crewed flight of the Artemis program, which is a key step toward a long-term return to the Moon and future missions to Mars.