The novel coronavirus has now infected more than 2.56 million people and killed at least 177,500 worldwide, according to Johns Hopkins University.

Here’s what you may have missed if you’re just tuning in:

Missouri is suing China: In what could be the first lawsuit filed by a US state against China, Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt filed a lawsuit Tuesday against the Chinese government over the loss of life and economic consequences in Missouri from the coronavirus, according to a statement from Schmitt’s office.

The lawsuit was filed against the Chinese government, Chinese Communist Party and other Chinese institutions accusing the government of suppressing information, arresting whistleblowers and denying the “contagious nature” of Covid-19, leading to severe consequences in Missouri.

Pope prays for Europe: Pope Francis prayed for European unity during early morning mass from the chapel of his residence on Wednesday. His words come ahead of an EU Council meeting Thursday to discuss a recovery package for the economic crisis the bloc is experiencing due to the pandemic.

Another cruise ship cluster: Japan has confirmed that 33 additional crew members onboard the Costa Atlantica cruise ship, which is docked in Nagasaki prefecture, have tested positive for Covid-19. The ship, operated by Italian cruise liner Costa Crociere, has been docked in Japan since March for repairs with 623 crew members. No passengers are currently onboard the ship.

Ai Weiwei on coronavirus: The Chinese artist and dissident said Beijing’s alleged selective handing of information early on provided a “chance for the virus to spread.” However, understanding China’s motivations is as important to Ai as the alleged cover-up, or the suggestion that the country’s infection numbers and fatalities have been under-reported.

More concerns about winter: The director of South Korea’s CDC believes that it is likely the country will see a second wave of the pandemic in autumn or winter “unless herd immunity is achieved through natural spread or through vaccines.” Her comments follow similar warnings from the director of the US CDC.