Russia’s nixing of Ukraine grain deal deepens worries about global food supply Since the war began, there’s been concern about getting Ukrainian grain to countries in need. A deal was struck in 2022 to keep exports flowing — but Russia put an end to it on Monday. Read more on NPR

Federal public defenders warn budget cuts may threaten ability to represent clients Federal public defenders face a looming budget crisis that threatens their ability to represent indigent people accused of crimes. Read more on NPR

Travis King isn’t the 1st U.S. soldier to enter North Korea. Here’s a history Travis King crossed the border into North Korea on Tuesday, becoming the first U.S. service member to do so since 1982. A handful of American soldiers defected in the years after the Korean War. Read more on NPR

Over-the-counter birth control is coming. Here’s what to know about cost and coverage The recently approved contraception Opill should be available for consumers next year. It’s not clear how or whether insurance will cover it. Here’s what’s known so far. Read more on NPR

Your air conditioner isn’t built for this heat. 5 tips to boost performance Extreme temperatures present a significant challenge to AC systems, which engineers and installers say are really only designed to keep indoor temperatures about 20 degrees cooler than outside. Read more on NPR