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Isa Soares Tonight

Sweltering Heat is Curbing Festivities and Forcing Some Cities to Cancel Events on the Eve of America's 250th Anniversary; Funeral Ceremonies to Honor Iran's Former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei Underway; Big Day of World Cup Action for the African Continent as Ghana, Egypt and Cape Verde All Take to the Pitch. Ukrainian Woman Disguised As Man Is Named As Suspect; Pope Leo To Visit Migration Hot Spot In Italy This Weekend; Three African Nations Play In Round Of 32 Today; NASA On A Mission To Save Space Observatory; 19th Annual iPhone Photo Awards Given Out. Aired 2-3p ET

Aired July 03, 2026 - 14:00   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

[14:00:00]

MAX FOSTER, HOST, ISA SOARES TONIGHT: A very warm welcome to the show, everyone, I'm Max Foster in for Isa Soares. Tonight, on the eve of

America's 250th anniversary, sweltering heat is curbing the festivities and forcing some cities even to cancel events. We'll have the very latest for

you.

Then funeral ceremonies to honor Ali Khamenei; the Iranian supreme leader killed at the beginning of the U.S.-Israeli war on his country. They're now

underway. We'll have a report from our reporter in Tehran.

Plus, a big day of World Cup action for the African continent as Ghana, Egypt and Cape Verde all take to the pitch. That and much more just ahead.

Well, 250 years ago, 13 colonies sever their ties with the U.K. They joined forces. And they announced they were done with kings.

The adoption of their declaration of independence on July the 4th, 1776, is widely recognized as the birth of the United States, and President Donald

Trump is kicking off the nationwide celebrations early.

Later today, he's set to deliver a speech at Mount Rushmore, a legendary monument that pays tribute to four of America's most revered presidents.

Mr. Trump has often mused about adding his own face to that mountain alongside Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt and Lincoln.

Tomorrow, on the actual holiday, the President will be at the National Mall in Washington for what he says will be the biggest fireworks show in

history. But if current attendance at the controversial state fair on them all organized by the White House is any indication, it may not live up to

its billing.

The crowds have been sparse due to a scorching heat-wave and complaints that Trump is making America's anniversary all about himself. CNN's Jeff

Zeleny is at Mount Rushmore awaiting the arrival of the President. How is he going to use this moment, do you think, Jeff?

JEFF ZELENY, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Max, there is no doubt that President Trump wanted to come here for a reason, reprising a visit from 2020, when

he came here on the eve of the 4th of July as well, to think of himself in the image of these great American presidents: Presidents Washington,

Jefferson, Roosevelt and Lincoln.

And you're right. He has talked about, not jokingly, about whether there's actually room on the Mount Rushmore behind me to put his name. There is a

bill in the U.S. Congress, it has stalled, it does not have a lot of support that would require the U.S. Park Service to put his likeness on

this mountain.

So, President Trump, whether or not that would ever happen, that is very unlikely, is making this America 250 celebration largely about him, his

legacy, his administration. And it is far different from the bicentennial celebration back in 1976 when President Ford at the time used it as a

moment to unify the U.S. after the Watergate scandal, after the long Vietnam war.

But this is a different moment in time, indeed. And President Trump wanting to be here to really kick off the celebrations that are going to continue

tomorrow on Saturday, Independence Day in Washington.

It's his second visit to the Dakotas this week, which is very unusual. But he was just in North Dakota on Wednesday at the Teddy Roosevelt Library,

but coming back here to wrap himself in the history of the country, the patriotism of the country, but also the brand of Trumpy -- the Trump brand

of politics that really has overshadowed so much American history over the last decade or so.

So, when he arrives here tonight, there will be spectacular fireworks show. There is no question. And then he heads back to Washington for that grand

finale tomorrow evening on the National Mall. Max.

FOSTER: If he doesn't get the crowds on the mall, how do you think he's going to respond to that, Jeff?

ZELENY: Well, Max, we know he is very sensitive. Perhaps it's the most sensitive subject of him of all over the crowds on the mall. We remember it

from his very first inauguration back in 2017.

[14:05:00]

So, look, I think he will do what he's been doing all week, and that is putting up A.I. images of a crowded National Mall. But simply, that has not

been the case. Not that he doesn't have legions of supporters. Of course, he does.

There will be thousands of people gathered here, and he has thousands of supporters across the country. Obviously, millions of supporters, and

winning some 80 million votes. But the reality here is by injecting politics into this Independence Day celebration.

It's become too political for some; several musicians have backed away from it. So, I expect him to be very sensitive. We know by our conversations

with aides at the White House that they are very concerned about the optics of that speech tomorrow evening.

But for now, at least, this event here is a ticketed event. All seats are likely to be filled. Several thousand seats will be filled, but it's a

quiet worry inside the White House about that image tomorrow night. Max.

FOSTER: Yes, well, it's a spectacular live position you got there, Jeff. Enjoy it. Thank you. Now, it's shaping up to be a scorching Independence

Day as Jeff was saying across the eastern U.S., more than 160 million people are facing heat warnings right now.

And things could get even worse as people head outside to watch the fireworks and barbecue on the 4th of July. Heat records have been toppled

in Boston and in Washington, and power outages around New York mean no AC for thousands.

In Philadelphia, the city hit 103 degrees Fahrenheit today, just over 39 degrees Celsius, tying the record set way back in 1901. Things could get

hotter tomorrow, and the city's parade has been canceled. In Washington, the great American state fair has been postponed until 5:00 p.m. Eastern

today, as the capital grapples with that heat.

CNN meteorologist Derek Van Dam was on the scene when that announcement was actually made.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

DEREK VAN DAM, METEOROLOGIST (on camera): I mean, we have seen time after time, people getting carried away in the Fire Department, the D.C. Fire

Department, trucks with medical personnel attending to individuals, their shoes off to try and cool their internal body temperatures.

It is extremely hot. But here's the question that I -- that I want to raise, is that after they announced this postponement of the Freedom 250

event, there are still the spectacles that are drawing in the visitors, including the Ferris wheel behind us, which, by the way, those individual

cabins are enclosed with Plexiglas.

So, imagine just how hot it is inside there. But look, there are still people lining up for the event, even though it has been postponed. They

asked people to leave the event space and find shade. So, what you're seeing behind me, I'll get the camera, our photojournalist, to turn around

and see the -- just the masses of people taking off because it is just simply too dangerous to be down here.

When we're talking about record-breaking heat, it's not just the temperature, it is the humidity levels that make it feel blistering. And

coping with this heat is so challenging because there's such little shade on the National Mall.

I mean, Erica, you've been here. Thousands of our viewers have been here as well. There's very little trees except on the outer periphery, but that's

outside of the boundaries of this Freedom 250 event. I've got this -- this is a digital thermometer.

We've been using this all morning to kind of showcase just how hot it is. And the ground temperature right now in this white-coloring is about 124

degrees. But if I bring it over here into darker spaces, it gets up to 135.

Now, you add in the humidity levels and, you know, our natural cooling system is to sweat. Well, your body has to work that much harder to cool

itself off, to evaporate and give you your sweat on your skin. But it is just so hard when you are literally swimming in the air that we are all

walking around in.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

FOSTER: Spectacular heat there on the ground, but particularly so while Americans celebrate 250 years of independence, Iran is putting on a grand

show of its own despite a costly war against two of the country's strongest militaries.

It's sparing no expense for the week-long funeral ceremonies honoring supreme leader Ali Khamenei. He was killed at the beginning of the U.S.-

Israeli war in Iran. Millions of mourners are expected to attend commemorations spanning five cities in both Iran and Iraq.

Today, foreign dignitaries are paying respects as the Ayatollah's body lies in state. He has become a symbol of Iran's resilience, and the

commemorations are meant to highlight the regime's survival in the face of this war.

Our Frederik Pleitgen is in Tehran, CNN operates in Iran only with the permission of the government, but we maintain full editorial control of our

reports.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

FREDERIK PLEITGEN, CNN SENIOR INTERNATIONAL CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): As the U.S. and Israel launched their war on Iran in late February, one of the

first-targeted assassinations, Iran's long-time supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei killed along with several family members in a massive

airstrike.

[14:10:00]

More than four months later, Iran is getting ready to hold possibly the largest funeral events in this country's history.

(On camera): Final preparations are underway here at the gigantic Mosalla Complex in central Tehran, and security in the city is extremely tight as

millions of people are set to show up and pay their final respects.

(Voice-over): Tehran is plastered with images of the late supreme leader posters, billboards and even statues on buildings and in-public squares.

Many vowing revenge against the U.S. and Israel for the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

"We don't trust the U.S. for any type of negotiations", this woman says. "Trump is the most bloodthirsty enemy in all the world." And she says, "it

is our message from here to all the world that all people should stand up, everyone should rise and give the slogan of death to the oppressors, death

to America."

And this man says, "we do not expect peace from the enemy. Our experience has proven this to us." After the U.S. and Israel killed the supreme leader

and parts of Iran's political and military leadership, Tehran regrouped quickly, naming Khamenei's son, Mojtaba Khamenei as the new supreme leader,

who still has not been seen in public since taking the reins and only communicates by written statements.

Iran also launching powerful missile and drone strikes and effectively shutting down the Strait of Hormuz. With a shaky ceasefire holding for now,

Iran's political and military leaders were some of the first to pay their final respects at the coffins lying in state, including the President,

Foreign Minister and chief negotiator.

Among the caskets, a tiny one containing the remains of Ayatollah Khamenei's granddaughter. "Without a doubt, this martyrdom has strengthened

our resolve," this Revolutionary Guard General says. "Today, with even greater determination, we address the enemies of the Iranian nation, the

United States and the Israeli regime, and say, we will hold them accountable for the blood of our martyred leader and all of our martyrs."

Vows of retribution, even as both sides negotiators aim to achieve a peace agreement looking to end the decades' long standoff between the U.S. and

Iran. Fred Pleitgen, CNN, Tehran.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

FOSTER: Now to Venezuela, where the government is facing pretty tough questions right now about its earthquake response and the official death

toll. Acting President Delcy Rodriguez says nearly 2,600 lives have been lost.

This as the U.S. geological survey estimates tens of thousands likely died in last week's back-to-back earthquakes. Amid the tragedy, we have seen

remarkable rescues.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

(CHEERS)

(APPLAUSE)

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: (SPEAKING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE)

(END VIDEO CLIP)

FOSTER: Emergency crews pulling a survivor from the rubble eight days after disaster struck. Isa Soares spoke with one of the rescuers.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

ISA SOARES, CNN ANCHOR & CORRESPONDENT (on camera): It was really moving, seeing Hernan Gil(ph) being pulled out of the rubble. A convoy of rescue

workers were carrying him on both sides of his stretchers and then the rest created a pathway, of course, after looking after him for something like

eight days.

And then the look on his face, he was dazed but alert. This was something out of a blockbuster movie, and everyone here could sense it, could feel

it.

(APPLAUSE)

SOARES: Because with applause, and there was a lot, by the way, also came relief after so many days, of course, of loss right here in Venezuela. For

a moment, just imagine being Hernan(ph), stuck under piles, tons of rubble, unable to move and in pitch black for days.

I was really struck by the herculean effort from teams from all over the world who, for days, taking turns, were delicately cutting through the

cement, trying to get him out. And this was, by the way, an incredibly complex operation.

Hernan(ph) was a security guard at this parking lot here on Level Minus 2 when the earthquake shook Venezuela. He was in his little cabin; I was told

by a rescue worker that he probably was sitting on his chair because they found him under the chair.

But that little cabin, imagine that created an air pocket, and that kept him safe. They kept him alive by giving him fluids, by giving him

electrolytes, even baby food through a tube.

[14:15:00]

And while this was all happening outside, his wife waited day and night to be able to hug her husband. I can't help but mention this little nugget

that was shared with me by a Portuguese rescue worker who, in the early days of the rescue, really bonded with Hernan(ph) over football. Have a

listen to this.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: (SPEAKING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE) Cristiano Ronaldo! (SPEAKING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE)

SOARES: Personally, after days reporting on so much loss and misery here in Venezuela, Hernan's(ph) rescue really moved, not just me, in fact, but

my entire team.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

FOSTER: Stefano Pozzebon now joins us live from the Venezuelan capital, Caracas. Obviously, we've got that incredible story there. But it is just

one story. Tell us about the speech the President -- the acting President gave yesterday and how it went down.

STEFANO POZZEBON, CNN CONTRIBUTOR: Well, Max, it was not really a speech. It was a press conference where we were able to ask her questions, the

first time that Delcy Rodriguez gave a press conference to the press since she was installed as the acting President in this country on January the

5th, in the immediate aftermath of that raid that removed the previous president, Nicolas Maduro, from power.

We asked him in particular about an updated death toll, we hadn't heard about new figures for the whole of yesterday, and responding to my

question, she said that the current death toll is at 2,595. So, almost shy, just shy of 2,600 people killed by this terrible double earthquake.

While she did address the fact that an unknown, she said, number of people are still missing. But I think the point of the press conference was for

Delcy Rodriguez to come up and to open her version to the press about criticisms that the government here has faced over frustration over delays

in the search and rescue operation.

She was asked repeatedly by us at CNN, but also by other outlets like the Spanish newspaper "El Pais" and Mexico's "Telemundo". And this is pretty

much what Delcy told us whenever we asked her about delays in the response.

And -- OK, well, sorry, Max, there is something we missed that sound. So, well, she did tell us that the government has done everything they can,

that they have deployed more than 19,000 people in to La Guaira, and yet, of course, the thousands of Venezuelans have spoken here in the last few

days have expressed their anger and frustration over the delays.

But at the same time, the context where this tragedy took place is remarkable. Venezuela, is a country that has been under an almost complete

economic crisis -- we're going to stop to let these civil units pass from our live location.

I was saying Venezuela has gone through an incredible economic crisis, an almost complete economic collapse over the last ten years. And of course,

this tragedy is the moment where that collapse becomes all too present.

Because we have seen heavy machinery on the way, stuck on the road towards La Guaira for lack of gasoline. We've seen chaos in the ranks of the

military or civilian officers around because officers are not available to give orders.

There is a complete -- a total sense of not being prepared on behalf of the state. It's not really a lack of will from the government itself, from the

executive power. Delcy Rodrguez, for example, passed an emergency decree just three hours after the earthquake struck.

It's more like the state machinery is not prepared and oiled in order to let these -- in order to lead the response to these -- to this terrible

tragedy. And as you can see, of course, actions are still taking place. Here is an ambulance from Civil Protection Unit trying to get closer to

where some of the first responders and rescue workers are still operating. Max?

FOSTER: OK, stay safe there, Stefano, thank you so much for that update. Well, still to come tonight, authorities have released new details about

Monday's bomb attack in Monaco, including a somewhat unexpected chief suspect.

Plus, Taylor swift is now in her wedding era. We'll take a look at what's happening right now in New York and what may be happening later without

many facts to go on, she's not releasing anything.

[14:20:00]

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

FOSTER: So, Taylor Swift's wedding era is finally here. Here's a live look at Madison Square Garden. We're told that a rehearsal event took place on

Thursday. Sources saying today's plans include a cocktail party before the couple tied the knot 5:30 p.m. Eastern.

But there are all sorts of rumors about the exact timeline here. Now, Kelce had his own last minute pre-wedding surprise. He and his brother, Jason

Kelce, just dropped a royal interview on their new "Heights" podcast.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The Duke of Cambridge, the Duke of Cornwall, the lord of the Isles, Prince of Great Steward of Scotland, Earl of Chester and the

Prince of Wales. Presenters, please welcome, his royal highness, Prince William!!!

WILLIAM ARTHUR PHILIP LOUIS MOUNTBATTEN-WINDSOR, PRINCE OF WALES: That is quite an intro guys, amazing.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

FOSTER: Quite the intro, absolutely. Prince William has met Swift several times. He joined the couple at Wembley Stadium in 2024, where he brought

his -- brought his children to see the Eras Tour. Many years ago, I interviewed Taylor Swift at Kensington Palace as well.

They've had a long-going -- yes, just before that moment, in fact, when they were singing on stage. So, should we expect any royal sightings at the

New York wedding? Let's go to Brynn Gingras with the latest at Madison Square Garden.

Brynn, you know, a lot of people asking when they got married, we don't know exactly, do we? Or whether it's happening later. I mean, what is the

intel?

BRYNN GINGRAS, CNN U.S. NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Yes, you know -- you know, it's funny. You just played that clip about Prince William. I can only

imagine Jason Kelce announcing the new bride and groom at tonight's event in that same way.

I mean, it's going to be quite a spectacle. And, Max, look, there's only one thing that can actually shut down an entire huge city blocks, multiple

blocks of New York City, and today, it just happens to be Travis and Taylor's expected wedding.

Let me just quickly move out of the way so you can see what I'm talking about. I mean, this is 7th Avenue, usually this is a gridlock area for New

York City, just outside Madison Square Garden, a major traffic thruway and it is empty.

That is because the police have shut down everything. Even pedestrians cannot be walking on the sidewalks in this area. That's how much security

is in place right now. And this could only mean that we are so much closer to the beginning of this grand event.

[14:25:00]

We're actually keeping our eyes trained on the street next to us, because that is where we possibly might see some SUVs delivering those guests to

the big event and into the tent that's down the street behind me, and really just going undetected, because there is again so much security that

is taking place.

But yes, all day, Max, we have been seeing the clues, the signs that something big is happening. We've been seeing donut trucks, we've been

seeing beverage trucks, we've been seeing ingredients to make pizza. It's definitely going to be quite the party we're hearing.

It kicks off about 4:30 with a cocktail hour. Then there is going to be a ceremony on the arena floor. Of course, it doesn't look like it did when

the Knicks were playing. It's been transformed reportedly into a huge garden, and we can't wait to hear more about who performs, who the guest

list is.

There are still so many questions, but really no answers at this point. But we do know it's going to be kicking off very soon, and it's very obvious by

all these signs that we're close. Max?

FOSTER: Obviously, you know, you need this level of security, don't you? This would be an event that has to be absolutely protected. I'm just

wondering, are there some locals who might not be Swifties? I can't imagine there are many. But are getting a bit --

GINGRAS: Yes --

FOSTER: Frustrated with this disruption just for one couple's wedding. You know, it doesn't happen for everyone, does it?

GINGRAS: Yes, you're clearly not a Swiftie because no one would talk bad about it, Max. But I've got to tell you, people are annoyed out there --

FOSTER: I'm sorry I went there.

GINGRAS: You know, New Yorkers --

(LAUGHTER)

GINGRAS: It's OK, I'm glad you asked the question because it's true. People are annoyed. You know, New Yorkers, it takes a lot -- it doesn't

take a lot, I should say, to get annoyed. We like to yell about anything. But I did, you know, go down this street, even just on 31st Street, there

are businesses that are right across the street from Madison Square Garden who are bars, who typically get huge crowds when it comes to the basketball

games.

Of course, we're in the middle of the World Cup, so they were expecting fans to be coming out. There's actually a bar that's known as an

Argentinean bar, and Argentina is playing tonight -- today. So, there's a lot of people that aren't quite happy, particularly business owners.

But even people walking around, you know, there is excitement, but there's also like, really, come on. This is -- this is a lot. And it is -- it's a

lot. I'm not going to lie.

FOSTER: It's also history. So, it's amazing to see as well. Brynn, thank you so much for joining us. Now, as we told you earlier, Taylor Swift and

Travis Kelce donated $26 million to a variety of charities ahead of their wedding.

One of the recipients was Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. Now, the queen of country music has a special thank you for the couple.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

DOLLY PARTON, COUNTRY MUSIC LEGEND: Taylor and Travis, it's Dolly, and I was just told that you two are making a donation of $2 million to my

Imagination Library. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I'm blown away and overjoyed with that gratitude.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

FOSTER: Still to come tonight, a search is underway for the suspect in Monday's bombing targeting a Ukrainian tycoon in Monaco. And it may

surprise you who police are actually looking for at this point.

[14:30:00]

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

MAX FOSTER, CNN INTERNATIONAL ANCHOR: International Police are searching for the main suspect of Monday's bomb attack on a Ukrainian tycoon in

Monaco. But due to the new details in the case, authorities believe they're now looking for a woman who had disguised herself as a man. Prosecutors say

after the attack, she fled to France, then drove to Italy.

The bomb exploded in the entryway of an apartment building, wounding a Ukrainian businessman and a woman and child who were with him.

CNN's Nick Paton Walsh has more on what we're learning.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

NICK PATON WALSH, CNN INTERNATIONAL SECURITY EDITOR: An extraordinary twist in the tale of a bombing of a millionaire in a place of luxury where

absolutely none of this is meant to happen. Monaco's prosecutors announced today they were seeking this woman, Anastasiia Berezovska, aged 39,

Ukrainian but resident in Germany as prime suspect in the bombing of this Monaco residential building where this man, Ukrainian millionaire Vadym

Yermolaiev and a woman and child were critically injured by a bomb hidden in a shopping bag.

It all comes down to this individual caught on CCTV. Prosecutors said they twice scouted the scene with the shopping bag that carried the bomb, both

two and three days before the bombing. But on the day before, they didn't, and instead the exact same route was walked bag in toe by this woman.

MORGAN RAYMOND, DEPUTY PROSECUTOR, MONACO (through translator): It was then noted that on June 28th, 2026, the only day for which no observations had

been made by the individual wearing the baseball cap, a woman followed the same route around the site of the explosion. Her route was the same as that

of the individual wearing the baseball cap and her behavior was similar when she was near the site of the explosion. This led to the conclusion

that this woman, who had dark brown hair, was heavy set, and had a prominent tattoo on her right arm, might be the same person who had planted

the explosive device.

WALSH (voice-over): The rest was easier in a place where there is a police officer for every 70 residents. There's not much other crime to solve, and

a third of the residents are millionaires. Her rental car traced back to Germany, where she lived, and an Interpol red notice issued. The why still

an issue. Why Yermolaiev? Why the half sophistication? A homemade remote controlled bomb and a suspect who got themselves filmed on scene.

Resident in Monaco about years, Yermolaiev had no obvious links to the war in Ukraine. This apparent failed hit, rattling a place sought for the

luxury and tranquility that beams off the waters around it.

Nick Paton Walsh, CNN London.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

FOSTER: For more on this, I want to bring in Glenn Schoen. He's a security expert who specializes in international terrorism just because there are so

many gaps in this story, aren't there Glenn? I mean, from what you know about the -- you know, the technology that was used here, if you like, and

the tactics, what does it sound like to you? Does it sound like an individual? Does it sound like there some sort of organization behind it?

GLENN SCHOEN, SECURITY MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT: The suspicion is indeed that probably she received help from other people. Authorities right now in

Germany where the core of the investigation is focused because they tracked a vehicle coming through France through Italy back to Germany where last

night an apartment was raided belonging to this lady. Germany is the country she fled to from Ukraine when the war broke out back in March of

2022.

They're looking essentially at three possibilities at the moment for motive. One being personal, one being organized crime connection, and one

being possibly state actor. And like you mentioned, the investigation is now sort of full throttle. Not quite at the verge of manhunt, but

approaching that. And the law enforcement in Germany led by the LKA and the BKA, both the federal police in Germany definitely is using an approach

that's normally used for a manhunt for terrorist suspects, so all resources brought to bear.

[14:35:19]

FOSTER: I just want to ask you about what you mentioned there in terms of who might behind it and, you know, whether it could be state sponsored.

This is -- I know obviously they look at all the options, don't they, when they investigate these things. But there is concern that there might be a

state behind this. This was a former Ukrainian national who switched to I think Cypriot nationality, didn't he? And then moved to Monaco. How would

they -- I mean, what states would they start looking at first?

SCHOEN: Well, if they are looking at states, Mr. Yermolaiev, of course, is alleged to have a background in organized crime in Ukraine. And on the one

hand it might be that business associates tied to a particular regime which may include Russia. He supposedly even after the invasion of Crimea and

then after the invasion of Ukraine proper, assisted the Russians in organized crime operations locally. So, there's a possibility there he

might have run awry of somebody that the Russians might be targeting.

And alternatively, of course, there is the possibility that perhaps the Ukrainians who don't appreciate anybody working together with the Russians

who are from their home turf. And it is alleged that this man helped Russian authorities or at least Russian organized crime in recent years.

So, it's one dimension that they're certainly looking at.

FOSTER: If I want -- could ask you about the potential it could be Ukraine behind it. I mean, people would find that extraordinary that they would

carry out an attack on a European nation.

SCHOEN: It certainly would be and we haven't heard any indication that this is so. Germans have said clearly since they went into the apartment

yesterday that their primary focus of the investigation right now is possible personal or organized crime ties. But again, organized crime is

also pretty closely interwoven with state actors in some parts of the world. So, it's certainly something they'll be taking a very close look at.

The other big question here, they have not yet revealed details of the explosive itself. So, we don't know in terms of the bomb if there's an

indication if it's a particular make, if there's a particular signature of a bomb maker, particular triggering device or detonator that's been used by

particular players.

Of course, we both know that Russia and Ukraine over time here, Ukraine in the case of inside of Russia, have targeted individuals considered either

as regime opponents or traitors.

FOSTER: Glenn Schoen, thank you. We haven't got much to work on, so it is all speculation at the moment, but these will be the lines the police are

clearly looking at. Thank you so much for joining us.

Still to come tonight, Pope Leo urges Americans to live up to the ideals put forward in the Declaration of Independence as he accepts the Liberty

Medal.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

[14:41:05]

FOSTER: Pope Leo praised the U.S. history of welcoming immigrants on the eve of America's 250th birthday. The first U.S.-born Pope delivered a

virtual address from the Vatican as he was honored with the Liberty Medal from the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. The Pope received a

medal in person at a private ceremony at the Vatican in April. He heads to the Italian island of Lampedusa on Saturday, one of Europe's biggest

migration hotspots.

Our Vatican Correspondent, Christopher Lamb, is in Lampedusa in Italy ahead of the Pope's visit. He joins us now. This -- you know, they think about

optics, don't they, and what these moments tie into? And nothing here was done, you know, accidentally, Christopher.

CHRISTOPHER LAMB, CNN VATICAN CORRESPONDENT: Well, that's right, Max. And I thought it was notable that the Pope in his remarks to the gathering in

Philadelphia mentioned America's history of welcoming immigrants and the decision to come to Lampedusa on July the 4th does send a message. Whilst

Leo is here, he will see for himself the tragedy of the migrants' crisis. He's going to be going to a cemetery on the island where a 6-month-old

boy's grave is located.

Now, I've been speaking to U.S. church leaders and to those on the island about the impact that Leo's visit could have.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

LAMB (voice-over): On a landmark Independence Day for America, Pope Leo, the first U.S.-born pontiff, is not taking part in big celebrations.

Instead, he is traveling to Lampedusa, the front line of the Mediterranean migration crisis, where thousands arrive each year, and many never survive

the often-perilous journey.

While on the southern Italian island, the Pope will meet migrants, celebrate mass, and lay a wreath for those who died at sea.

DON CARMELO RIZZO, PARISH PRIEST, LAMPEDUSA (through translator): When migrants disembark, we make simple evangelical gestures. Sometimes we give

a glass of water. Sometimes we give a smile. We ask for their name, a few words of encouragement. And these sometimes seem like insignificant

gestures, but they are the gestures that give dignity to the person who perhaps when they arrive see so many military uniforms.

LAMB (voice-over): Supporting migrants is a top priority for Leo's papacy and a point of tension with the Trump administration. Leo has criticized

the immigration crackdown in the U.S., calling it "inhuman." And this week, Vice President J.D. Vance called the Vatican stance troubling.

LAMB: For many arriving here, the first help comes from the Red Cross. This crossing is one of the most-deadly in the world, with more than 32,000

people either lost or missing over the last decade.

ROSARIO VALASTRO, PRESIDENT, RED CROSS ITALY: We don't know actually how many people died in the -- in the Mediterranean Sea and how many died

during the old route from Africa to Europe. And I think that it's quite something to be ashamed to consider the lives of people like numbers.

LAMB (voice-over): Church leaders say the Pope's message reflects the history of America and highlights the contribution of new arrivals.

RONALD HICKS, ARCHBISHOP OF NEW YORK: The United States has always been a country of immigrants. Everyone has come from somewhere.

LAMB (voice-over): Leo is also following in his predecessor's footsteps with Pope Francis making an emotional high-profile visit to Lampedusa more

than a decade ago. The Chicago-born pontiff wants the church to work on the front lines of the crisis like this parish on the island. In recent months,

Leo has shown a willingness to speak out even in the face of criticism.

BLASE CUPICH, ARCHBISHOP OF CHICAGO: He said before he's not going to be afraid of opposition. He's going to do what he's called to do in his

ministry.

LAMB (voice-over): As the U.S. celebrates its 250th anniversary, the Pope's July 4th message comes from a place where people often arrive having risked

everything in the hope of a better future.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

[14:45:13]

LAMB (on camera): Well, Max, last-minute preparations are underway now for the Pope's visit. An open-air mass he's going to preside at is due to be

attended by thousands. And this is shaping up to be a very important moment for the first American Pope's papacy. Max?

FOSTER: Yes, fascinating. Christopher, thank you so much.

Now, earlier in the day, the mayor of New York, Zohran Mamdani, shared his reflections on America as it prepares to mark its 250th birthday despite

the country's many challenges. He says patriotism is alive and well. Take a listen.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

ZOHRAN MAMDANI, MAYOR, NEW YORK CITY: We see America each time neighbors link arms with neighbors without asking how long they have lived here or

what papers they have as ICE invades our neighborhoods. We see America each time those young and old stand in the beating rain or the stifling heat to

cast their ballots. We see America each time working people demand more, not just for themselves, but for their fellow Americans.

There are some who respond to those who ask for more from America with a simple refrain, love it or leave it, they say. But patriotism has never

been about pretending our nation is without flaws. Patriotism is every act of righteous descent. It is every march led under the heavy sun. It is

every protest held a decade before its time. It is precisely because we love this nation that we will not leave it. After all, who loves America

more than those who have sacrificed so much to make it free?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

FOSTER: Still to come tonight, from Cinderella stories to real contenders, a look at the huge success of African teams at the men's World Cup with

Egypt playing as we speak in fact.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

FOSTER: Today at the World Cup, every game being played features a team from Africa. Egypt and Australia are in action right now with the Egyptian

side in the lead, one-nil going very close to halftime. Later today, Ghana will play Colombia. And Cape Verde, the team that's captured the attention

of the whole world, not just the football world, take on reigning champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi.

All told, nine of 10 qualified African nations made it to the knockout stage, though, so far, only Morocco have managed to advance to the round of

16.

Football journalist Gary Al-Smith joins us now. I mean, it has been fascinating to see, Gary, hasn't it? Do you think part of this is the way

more teams were allowed to play so there was more entry-level, but once the African teams got into the tournament, they were really able to prove

themselves?

[14:50:34]

GARY AL-SMITH, AFRICAN FOOTBALL JOURNALIST: Absolutely. I mean, Africa has always made it the point that if you give us more access, we are going to

do better. It's a simple number of (INAUDIBLE) and it's been proven. And I'm hoping that, you know, the leaders of African Football can push this

evidence hard at their next meetings that Africa needs more, not less, places at the table of the World Cup.

FOSTER: It has been incredible, hasn't it? And they've all got very different tactics. They've really read the game really well. If we could

talk about Ghana for a moment, you know, that like incredible defense, that was a really firm strategy, wasn't it? But it worked for them to get

through these rounds. So, they've all really thought about, you know, how they can make the most of their players. I'm talking across the African

teams here.

AL-SMITH: It's tournament football, Max. And tournament football the best strategy is to play to your strengths. So, like you mentioned, Ghana.

Ghana's team is in a bit of a transition and at the moment the attacking firepower is not the best. You can -- you certainly cannot compare what we

have in Ghana to say Senegal or Morocco. And so, it would have always been too hard to play an open game like them.

Tonight we expecting a very (INAUDIBLE) where we are not sure whether Ghana will open up or not. But if they are for example, (INAUDIBLE) most of these

have been together for nine, ten years. They've been there, the same coach has held them, and so the chemistry that you don't have in Ghana for

example is available for (INAUDIBLE).

You see Egypt who are playing Australia at the moment they have a very interesting style of play where they are not -- they don't have as much

flare again as Morocco or Senegal, but they play absolutely to their strengths. And in tournament football, you do that. That's what you do to

win. And so, I think that it's the story of being pragmatic, knowing what works for you and going for it.

FOSTER: Yes. Well, it's fantastic to see and got a long way to go for the continent. I'm sure you'll all get behind whatever one of them gets

through. Gary Al-Smith, thank you so much.

Now, NASA is teaming up with an American company to stop one of the oldest working spacecraft from re-entering Earth's atmosphere in flames. Space and

science writer Ashley Strickland has more on the mission to save the Swift Observatory from a certain doom.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

ASHLEY STRICKLAND, CNN SPACE AND SCIENCE CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): An American startup has partnered with NASA in a race against time to save one

of NASA's oldest working spacecraft. More than years ago, NASA launched the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory containing multiple telescopes to study

gamma ray bursts, the most powerful explosions in the universe. After decades circling the Earth, providing invaluable research, the observatory

is now rapidly dropping altitude and is expected to sink into Earth's atmosphere later this year, unless it can be reversed.

GHONHEE LEE, CEO, KATALYST SPACE TECHNOLOGIES: From a technological perspective, we've finally gotten to this point where we don't just have to

throw away a $ 500 million asset as it burns up. We've gotten to the point where we have robotics, maneuverability autonomy to where we can actually

make different decisions that were not available even five years ago, saying, hey, we would really like to keep this spacecraft, the Swift, alive

for another few years. Let's see what we can do.

STRICKLAND (voice-over): LINK is a robotic servicing satellite created by Katalyst Space Technologies. In early July, a Stargazer jet flew over the

Pacific Ocean and launched a Pegasus rocket carrying LINK to bring it close to Swift. Over several months, the robotic spacecraft will grab Swift and

bring it into a higher, safer orbit. But without any recent data or photos of the Swift spacecraft, the mission is extra tricky. Katalyst engineers

have been using a testing area called The Void with a model of Swift and LINK along with a computer simulation of the mission to plan it out

exactly.

CHANDLER CASEY, NAVIGATION AND CONTROL ENGINEER, KATALYST SPACE TECHNOLOGIES: The hardest part is just kind of that uncertainty there,

especially as you get close. As you can imagine, this is a very difficult technical operation to be able to grab something so far away just through

semi-autonomous cameras and robotic systems.

[14:55:03]

STRICKLAND (voice-over): NASA says they could have allowed Swift to burn up in the atmosphere but saw this as an opportunity to demonstrate future

space exploration capabilities and save Swift.

LEE: Our goal is to have hundreds of robotic spacecraft just like this one up in orbit that are constantly maneuvering between low Earth orbit and the

moon, building things, moving things. And that's something that NASA as well as other parts of the government can take advantage of to buy things

as a service rather than having to reinvent the wheel each time.

STRICKLAND (voice-over): Ashley Strickland, CNN.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

FOSTER: Finally, tonight, some award-winning images. The 19th annual iPhone Photo Awards were announced this week. This stunning one of a volcanic

eruption in the Cayman Islands, taking the grand prize. Look at those colors. The silver prize went to a remarkable black and white photo though

of a cat taken in Amsterdam. It was shot with an iPhone 16 Pro. And not to be outdone, these two dogs in the U.K. found themselves taking first place

in the animal photography category. They look like they just want their master to come home, don't they? And the top prize in the children's

category went to this little girl on the beach joyfully running away from the waves. iPhone photographers from 140 different countries submitted

thousands of pictures in this year's competition.

Thanks for watching tonight. Stay with CNN. I'll have "WHAT WE KNOW' coming up next.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

END