US Returns $81 Billion in Wrongfully Collected Tariffs Following Supreme Court Ruling

The US government has refunded $81 billion in tariffs to companies that were initially charged under former President Donald Trump's global tariff program, which was declared illegal by the Supreme Court in February. The refunds began in May, with $71 billion returned in May and June alone, representing 42% of the $166 billion total tariffs slated for reimbursement during the current fiscal year starting October 2025. This marks a dramatic reversal from last year, when the Treasury reported net tariff collections of $26.6 billion and Treasury Secretary Scott BaScent praised the program's benefits. The federal government has appealed the Supreme Court decision, potentially delaying further payments to eligible companies.

In Hungary, the parliament voted overwhelmingly to remove President Tamás Sólyuk from office, a move that further diminishes the remaining powers of outgoing Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. The new government led by Péter Mayer, which ended Orbán's 16-year rule in April, is also pursuing judicial reforms and measures to investigate alleged financial fraud from the previous administration.

Japan is establishing a central intelligence agency for the first time since World War II, seeking Western allies' assistance to enhance technology, staffing, and priorities. This initiative aims to address Japan's fragmented intelligence system and growing security threats from China, Russia, and North Korea. The move aligns with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's efforts to lift post-war defense restrictions.

In Argentina, a Buenos Aires court recognized two goldfish as "sentient beings" with legal rights, ordering their relocation from a sushi restaurant's inadequate tank to a proper aquarium. This unprecedented ruling could influence animal welfare laws nationwide. The case was brought by the animal rights group Jaulas Vacías, which argued the fish were kept in conditions violating Argentina's animal cruelty laws.