8 bagged bodies found with note in narco-trafficking hotspot
The discovery comes in the midst of a U.S.-backed military crackdown on the organized crime gangs in Ecuador.
Ecuador
Judge shot dead while heading to gym without her bodyguards
Lady Pachar was shot that day while traveling by car to a gym in the southwestern city of Machala.
Ecuador to extradite notorious drug gang leader to U.S.
Dario Penafiel, known as "Topo," allegedly worked closely with one of Ecuador's most powerful drug lords, Adolfo Macias, alias "Fito."
Exclusive
U.S. commandos in Ecuador for mission targeting alleged narco-terrorists
American commandos joined Ecuadorian troops in a joint mission aimed at dismantling a suspected criminal hub along the country's coast.
Alleged Hezbollah member on U.S. terror list is arrested in Ecuador
The Syrian man has been identified as a terrorist threat by the U.S. for belonging to Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah.
Fugitive wanted in killing of Ecuadorian candidate arrested in Mexico
Ángel Esteban Aguilar Morales is one of the alleged ringleaders of the Ecuadorian criminal gang "Los Lobos" and one of the country's most-wanted fugitives.
Ecuador launches U.S.-backed anti-drug operations: "We're at war"
The operation marks the latest joint show of force against drug cartels in the South American country.
U.S., Ecuador carry out joint anti-drug strikes, video shows
U.S. and Ecuadoran forces conducted "lethal kinetic operations" inside Ecuador to combat drug trafficking in the South American country, SOUTHCOM said.
Strike on alleged drug boat kills 6 in Eastern Pacific, U.S. military says
The U.S. military says it has killed six men in a strike on an alleged drug-smuggling vessel in the eastern Pacific Ocean as part of the Trump administration's campaign against alleged traffickers.
Ecuador sinks "narco sub" as nation works with U.S. to fight organized crime
Ecuador and the U.S. began joint military operations on Tuesday, the U.S. Southern Command said on social media.
Human heads displayed at Ecuador tourist beach in warning to gangs
Images on social media showed five heads tied with ropes on two wooden posts at a popular whale watching destination in Ecuador's southwest.
Soccer star Mario Pineida shot and killed in Ecuador
Guayaquil has become a hotspot for gang violence linked to drug trafficking and several soccer players in Ecuador have been targeted in recent months.
13 inmates found dead after explosion at prison in Ecuador
The deaths occurred Sunday at a prison in the coastal city of Machala, Ecuador, after "the detonation of an explosive device" outside, officials said.
Leader of gang targeted by U.S. captured years after faking his death
Wilmer Chavarriais is believed to be the leader of Los Lobos, a drug trafficking syndicate that was recently designated a terrorist organization by the U.S.
U.S. reaches trade frameworks with Argentina, Guatemala, El Salvador and Ecuador
The agreements will likely affect the prices of things like cocoa, bananas and coffee.
31 dead after Ecuador prison riot, officials say
At least 27 inmates were found dead from asphyxiation at a prison in Ecuador where a riot broke out that left four others dead earlier in the day, officials said.
16-year-old soccer player killed by stray bullet in Ecuador
Since 2021, Ecuador has experienced growing criminal violence by gangs operating in coordination with Colombian and Mexican cartels involved in drug trafficking.
Half of uncontacted tribes could be wiped out in 10 years, report says
Loggers were killed after entering Mashco Piro territory in Peru's Amazon, with Indigenous leaders warning that such clashes are inevitable when frontier zones go unpoliced.
Ecuador releases survivor of U.S. strike on alleged "narco sub"
Ecuador released a man who survived a U.S. strike on a suspected drug-trafficking vessel after finding no evidence that he had committed a crime, officials said.
Boat strike survivors return to home countries
The Department of Defense has released footage from Friday's deadly strike on an alleged drug-carrying vessel in the Caribbean Sea. CBS News Pentagon reporter and producer Eleanor Watson has the details.
Judge shot dead while walking his kids to school in Ecuador
Police said the Los Lobos gang -- designated a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. -- was suspected of the attack on the judge.
14 people killed, with victims showing "signs of torture" in Ecuador
Four men and four women had "signs of torture" with their hands tied together and "their heads covered in black bags," according to a police report.
17 killed in Ecuador prison riot days after deadly jailbreak
Clashes between drug gangs claimed at least 17 lives at an Ecuadoran prison, with rampaging inmates beheading and maiming rivals, officials said.
14 killed in prison clashes in Ecuador as some inmates escape
Ecuador has seen violence spiral in recent years as enemy gangs with ties to Mexican and Colombian cartels vie for control.
Prehistoric insects trapped in amber give glimpse into ancient life
Scientists have discovered prehistoric insects preserved in amber in South America for the first time.
Live
Trump lauds "very good meetings" as indirect U.S.-Iran talks resume
Vance says the U.S. has accomplished its "core mission" in Iran, as Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner meet mediators in Qatar, but not Iranians.
Trump takes first trip on Qatari-gifted Air Force One
President Trump is traveling Wednesday to North Dakota in what marks his first trip aboard the new Air Force One, which was gifted to the U.S. by the Qatari government last year.
This July 4th could be hottest ever in parts of U.S.
Extremely dangerous heat, coupled with humidity, could result in heat index readings of 100 to 115 degrees from the Midwest to the East Coast, forecasters said.
Trump made over $1 billion on crypto ventures last year, disclosure shows
President Trump earned more than a billion dollars from crypto-related ventures alone last year, according to a financial disclosure, including from his meme coin business and his family's cryptocurrency venture.
New disease threats follow Trump administration's health program cuts
From screwworm to flesh-eating bacteria, mounting public health risks are emerging in the wake of deep cuts to federal health agencies and programs.
Justice Department sues Virginia, California over gun laws
Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche said "the Constitution is not a suggestion" and that "the Second Amendment is a sacred right belonging to all Americans."
Breaking
2 people climb to top of NYC's Empire State Building, fly banner
Two people could be seen with a banner at the very top of the Empire State Building in New York City Wednesday afternoon.
Water safety tips as millions of Americans deal with intense heat wave
Ahead of the Fourth of July weekend, experts are warning about the dangers of rip currents and the importance of water safety.
Victor Willis, Village People lead singer, dies at 74
Victor Willis, lead singer of the disco group Village People, whose hit "Y.M.C.A." became a fixture at rallies for President Trump, has died at the age of 74, the band says.
U.S.
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Breaking
2 people climb to top of NYC's Empire State Building, fly banner
Two people could be seen with a banner at the very top of the Empire State Building in New York City Wednesday afternoon.
Justice Department sues Virginia, California over gun laws
Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche said "the Constitution is not a suggestion" and that "the Second Amendment is a sacred right belonging to all Americans."
Sony to stop making physical discs for PlayStation starting in 2028
After January 2028, new games will be available exclusively in digital format from the PlayStation Store and at retailers, Sony said.
Trump takes first trip on Qatari-gifted Air Force One
President Trump is traveling Wednesday to North Dakota in what marks his first trip aboard the new Air Force One, which was gifted to the U.S. by the Qatari government last year.
Woman survives falling 1,500 feet down Mount Shasta
A woman suffered injuries but survived falling 1,500 feet down California's Mount Shasta, which she had attempted to climb, officials said.
MoneyWatch
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Sony to stop making physical discs for PlayStation starting in 2028
After January 2028, new games will be available exclusively in digital format from the PlayStation Store and at retailers, Sony said.
Anthropic says Trump admin. lifted restrictions on powerful Claude AI models
Artificial intelligence giant Anthropic says the federal government lifted a set of restrictions on its powerful Claude Fable 5 and Mythos 5 models, resolving a weekslong dispute.
Trump made over $1 billion on crypto ventures last year, disclosure shows
President Trump earned more than a billion dollars from crypto-related ventures alone last year, according to a financial disclosure, including from his meme coin business and his family's cryptocurrency firm.
Consumers need protection from AI agents, lawmaker says
Sen. Mark Warner wants to create a federal registry of trusted AI agents and ensure autonomous bots operate like fiduciaries.
Egg producers reach federal and state settlement after price-fixing probe
Three U.S. egg producers will be required to provide 53 million eggs to food banks and to pay a $3.3 million financial penalty.
Politics
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Justice Department sues Virginia, California over gun laws
Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche said "the Constitution is not a suggestion" and that "the Second Amendment is a sacred right belonging to all Americans."
Harvard professor known for alien theories to lead White House UFO council
Avi Loeb, a Harvard astronomer who has made headlines with his theories about alien encounters, will lead a White House scientific advisory council on UFOs.
Trump takes first trip on Qatari-gifted Air Force One
President Trump is traveling Wednesday to North Dakota in what marks his first trip aboard the new Air Force One, which was gifted to the U.S. by the Qatari government last year.
New disease threats follow Trump administration's health program cuts
From screwworm to flesh-eating bacteria, mounting public health risks are emerging in the wake of deep cuts to federal health agencies and programs.
Melat Kiros projected to defeat Diana DeGette in Colorado Congressional primary
Challenger Melat Kiros, a democratic socialist, is the projected winner of the Democratic primary in Colorado's First Congressional District.
HealthWatch
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Actor Danny Glover reveals Alzheimer's diagnosis
Actor Danny Glover spoke about his Alzheimer's diagnosis in an interview with NBC's "Today" show, revealing that he has been living with the disease for several years.
Medicare to help pay for some GLP-1 drugs
Starting Wednesday, Medicare will help pay for some GLP-1 medications for weight loss. CBS News medical correspondent Dr. Celine Gounder explains what this means for patients.
New disease threats follow Trump administration's health program cuts
From screwworm to flesh-eating bacteria, mounting public health risks are emerging in the wake of deep cuts to federal health agencies and programs.
What is the viral trend looksmaxxing?
Looksmaxxing is a viral and controversial trend that encourages young men to maximize their appearance. Adam Yamaguchi shows why it's resonating with some people.
He dreamed of becoming a physician assistant. New loan rules may thwart him.
Starting July 1, the government will cap what graduate students may borrow in federal loans, forcing many toward private lenders with higher interest rates.
World
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Dog pulled from rubble 5 days after Venezuela quakes, video shows
Dramatic video showed the moment a rescue team pulled a small dog from the rubble nearly a week after twin earthquakes devastated Venezuela.
How Iran could try to control the Strait of Hormuz — and profit from it
Some experts say the Strait of Hormuz will not return to its pre-war state, so what could the future of this vital shipping lane look like?
Live
Trump lauds "very good meetings" as indirect U.S.-Iran talks resume
Vance says the U.S. has accomplished its "core mission" in Iran, as Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner meet mediators in Qatar, but not Iranians.
At least 14 kids killed as Pakistan tutoring center's roof collapses
The roof of a private tutoring center in Lahore, Pakistan, collapsed, killing more than a dozen pupils and leaving at least eight more injured, authorities say.
Rescuers in Venezuela race to save security guard trapped under building
Hernan Gil Flores is believed to still be in the security booth of the building's underground parking garage. His wife says rescuers have been able to make contact with him and get him water.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Stars talk "Summer's Last Resort" comedy
Sophia Bush and Jerry O'Connell talk to "CBS Mornings" about starring in the coming-of-age comedy "Summer's Last Resort." Bush discusses what drew her to the project and says there was "never a dull day on set," while O'Connell reveals what his daughters thought about the film.
Actor Danny Glover reveals Alzheimer's diagnosis
Actor Danny Glover spoke about his Alzheimer's diagnosis in an interview with NBC's "Today" show, revealing that he has been living with the disease for several years.
Mamdani hints at Taylor Swift MSG wedding
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani teased Taylor Swift's rumored wedding at Madison Square Garden, sending Swifties into a frenzy. In addition, two law enforcement sources say the celebrity couple plans to have a rehearsal dinner Thursday evening and a wedding celebration on Friday. CBS News' Jo Ling Kent has the latest.
Victor Willis, Village People lead singer, dies at 74
Victor Willis, lead singer of the disco group Village People, whose hit "Y.M.C.A." became a fixture at rallies for President Trump, has died at the age of 74, his wife and the band said.
Swift, Kelce hosting 2 events at MSG: sources
While there's still no official word from Taylor Swift or Travis Kelce on their wedding, some law enforcement sources are talking details. Jo Ling Kent has more from Madison Square Garden.
Technology
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Technology
White House lifted AI limits, Anthropic says
Tech giant Anthropic says that the federal government has now removed restrictions from its robust Claude Fable 5 and Mythos 5 models. Axios reporter Madison Mills has more on artificial intelligence regulation.
Sony to stop making physical discs for PlayStation starting in 2028
After January 2028, new games will be available exclusively in digital format from the PlayStation Store and at retailers, Sony said.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Consumers need protection from AI agents, lawmaker says
Sen. Mark Warner wants to create a federal registry of trusted AI agents and ensure autonomous bots operate like fiduciaries.
AI could make people dull, one scientist fears. Here's why.
AI tends to "play it safe within a user's preferences," nudging people toward more conventional choices, according to computational social scientist Sandra Matz.
Science
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Science
NASA strives to save doomed telescope
NASA is in a race against time as the Swift Observatory telescope in orbit sinks closer to Earth. CBS News consultant William Harwood explains the $30 million salvage operation.
Fossil found in drawer turns out to be first dinosaur bone from Antarctica
Dinosaur fossils are rare to find in Antarctica because of the unforgiving ice caps. But millions of years ago, the region was populated by lush forests.
NASA prepares to launch rescue to save telescope from falling to Earth
The $30 million salvage operation gets underway as soon as this week with the planned launch of a robotic lifesaver.
Astronomers find 2 gigantic planets lighter than cotton candy
The featherweight pair — orbiting a star 1,110 light-years away — are the biggest exoplanets found to have less density than cotton candy.
Ancient Egyptian burial site reveals centuries of changing traditions
Human and animal remains unearthed in Egypt's Nile Delta reveal changing funerary practices over some 600 years, and the evolution of a key site itself.
Crime
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3 in custody after CBS News Chicago crew attacked near Adler Planetarium
During the incident, a reporter and photographer were approached by three men, one with a dog, before their news truck and gear were destroyed.
U.S. announces new bank alert targeting powerful drug cartel
Two men and nine companies are accused of being tied to a cartel-linked fuel theft ring intended to evade taxes while generating tens of millions of dollars annually.
Suspect in D.C. Israeli murders back in court
The man accused of killing two Israeli embassy staffers in Washington, D.C., is back in court today. CBS News crime and public safety unit's senior coordinating producer Anna Schecter has more on the case.
Arrests made after bomb attack targets reporter threatened by mafia
Sigfrido Ranucci had just returned home at the time of the explosion, and his daughter had walked by a half-hour before, his employer said.
Over half a million dollars stolen from ATMs in "jackpotting" scheme
Four men are accused of stealing more than half a million dollars from ATMs in Connecticut, in a "jackpotting scheme," authorities said.
Space
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NASA astronauts operate on space station's broken robot arm
The orbital surgery on the International Space Station returned the Canadian-built robot arm to full health after its "wrist" joint failed last month.
NASA prepares to launch rescue to save telescope from falling to Earth
The $30 million salvage operation gets underway as soon as this week with the planned launch of a robotic lifesaver.
Astronomers find 2 gigantic planets lighter than cotton candy
The featherweight pair — orbiting a star 1,110 light-years away — are the biggest exoplanets found to have less density than cotton candy.
Telescope snaps most detailed photo yet of Milky Way's heart
Euclid is on a mission to chart one-third of the sky in the hopes of shedding light on the enduring mysteries of dark matter and dark energy.
Interstellar comet may be oldest object ever seen in solar system
Exactly where the comet 3I/ATLAS came from within the Milky Way remains a mystery.
Latest Galleries
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Celebrations at Obama Presidential Center
The Obama Presidential Center, museum and library opens in Chicago with a star-studded grand opening ceremony and public watch party on Midway Plaisance.
Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Summer music highlights of 2026
Summer is the time to enjoy live music, indoors and out. Scroll through our gallery of some of 2026's leading musical acts, featuring images by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
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6/27: CBS Weekend News
High winds and heat are fueling Utah's out-of-control wildfires; Iranian drones target Bahrain after U.S. strikes Iran.
Extreme temperatures across U.S.
More than two dozen states are under heat alerts, impacting around 200 million people across the central and eastern U.S. Dozens of cities are expected to endure record highs through the Fourth of July. Tom Hanson reports.
Stars talk "Summer's Last Resort" comedy
Sophia Bush and Jerry O'Connell talk to "CBS Mornings" about starring in the coming-of-age comedy "Summer's Last Resort." Bush discusses what drew her to the project and says there was "never a dull day on set," while O'Connell reveals what his daughters thought about the film.
Future impact of Supreme Court's key rulings
The Supreme Court's most recent term ended with some landmark decisions on birthright citizenship and transgender athletes' ability to compete. CBS News' Jan Crawford breaks down the major cases.
White House lifted AI limits, Anthropic says
Tech giant Anthropic says that the federal government has now removed restrictions from its robust Claude Fable 5 and Mythos 5 models. Axios reporter Madison Mills has more on artificial intelligence regulation.