The Actual News - Just the Facts

See Tropical Storm Bertha's projected path as it strengthens in Gulf

July 21, 2026 • World • CBS News

Summary

Tropical Storm Bertha formed on Monday and grew stronger by early Tuesday in the Gulf of Mexico. Meteorologists are tracking the storm's path to see where it might go next.

Key Facts

Tropical Storm Bertha formed on Monday.
The storm strengthened early Tuesday.
It is located in the Gulf of Mexico.
Meteorologists are monitoring the storm’s projected path.
Updates are available from CBS News and their app.

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CBS News

Nearly 100 U.S. service members injured in Iranian strikes this month, Pentagon says

July 21, 2026 • World • CBS News

Summary

Nearly 100 U.S. service members were hurt in Iranian attacks in the Middle East this month, according to the Pentagon. Most of the injured service members have returned to their duties.

Key Facts

Close to 100 U.S. service members were injured this month in strikes by Iran.
The injuries happened during ongoing conflict involving Iran in the Middle East.
Most of the service members who were hurt have gone back to their jobs.
The Pentagon’s main spokesperson, Sean Parnell, provided this information.
The news reflects a rising level of tension and violence in the region.
The report was shared by CBS News.
The Iran conflict is continuing to escalate with recent attacks.
The injured service members were part of the U.S. military presence in the area.

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CBS News

Study of 237 Countries Reveals Hidden Pattern Behind Falling Birth Rates

July 21, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

Researchers studied data from 237 countries over more than 200 years and found two common patterns in how birth rates fall as life expectancy rises. They discovered that these changes in population happen in similar ways worldwide, influenced by factors like education and the costs of raising children.

Key Facts

The study analyzed data from 1800 to 2020 across 237 countries.
Two main phases describe how birth rates fall as life expectancy increases.
Phase 1 (before mid-20th century) had high child mortality and steady population growth.
Phase 2 (after 1950) features low child mortality, longer lifespans, and falling birth rates.
Parents tend to have fewer children but invest more in each child’s education and resources.
Higher costs and pressure from education may reduce the number of children families have.
Policies in China and South Korea aim to reduce education costs and tutoring pressures to help raise birth rates.
The findings suggest global demographic changes follow universal patterns, not just country-specific reasons.

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Newsweek

WATCH: Dog reunited with family after 10 days

July 21, 2026 • Us • ABC News

Summary

A dog that had been missing for 10 days was reunited with its family. The article includes comments from the dog's owner and a police officer about the emotional meeting.

Key Facts

The dog was lost for 10 days before being found.
The dog owner shared their feelings about being reunited.
A police officer also spoke about the reunion.
The story highlights the strong bond between pets and their families.
The reunion was covered as a human interest story on ABC News.
The article was published on July 21, 2026.
The event took place in the United States.
The story emphasizes community involvement in finding lost pets.

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ABC News

Angela Rayner: Labour's working-class warrior bounces back

July 21, 2026 • Us • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Angela Rayner, a Labour MP known for her working-class background, has returned to the UK cabinet as housing secretary under new leader Andy Burnham. She had previously resigned from the role due to a tax issue but has now resumed the position to help with housing and local government powers.

Key Facts

Angela Rayner grew up in a poor council estate in Greater Manchester and cared for her mother with bipolar disorder.
She left school without qualifications but later studied British sign language and social care while working as a care worker.
Rayner became a full-time union official and rose to a senior role in Unison before entering politics.
She was first elected as MP for Ashton-under-Lyne in 2015, a seat near her hometown.
Rayner resigned as housing secretary last year after underpaying tax on the purchase of a home.
After Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer stepped down, Andy Burnham became leader with wide support, including from Rayner.
Burnham has appointed Rayner back to the cabinet as housing secretary.
In her new role, Rayner will support Burnham’s plan to shift power from the UK government to local councils and increase council house building.

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BBC Top Stories

Headaches for Silicon Valley as China chips away at the US’s lead in the AI race

July 21, 2026 • Technology • Guardian Tech

Summary

China is closing the gap with the United States in the development of artificial intelligence (AI) by releasing free and open-source AI models that challenge top US companies like Google. Meanwhile, Google is delayed in launching its improved AI model, Gemini 3.5, while Chinese firms Moonshot and Alibaba introduce capable AI tools that attract strong user demand.

Key Facts

Google is behind schedule for launching Gemini 3.5, its new AI model designed to improve coding skills.
Chinese startup Moonshot released a free AI model called Kimi K3, which has strong coding abilities and high user demand.
Kimi K3 is open-weight, meaning anyone can download and use it on their own computers without cost.
Alibaba previewed its model Qwen3.8 Max, which has similar capabilities to Kimi K3 and plans to release it publicly.
Beijing supports Chinese AI startups by subsidizing computing resources, allowing them to offer free or low-cost AI models.
US companies face competition not only on AI ability but also on cost, as Chinese models are often cheaper or free.
US government officials, including those in the Trump administration, are working to limit American access to Chinese AI models.
OpenAI and other US AI firms have raised concerns about China’s open approach to AI, fearing government control over AI services.

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Guardian Tech

Eye Opener: Tropical Storm Bertha forms, taking aim at Gulf Coast

July 21, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

Tropical Storm Bertha has formed in the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to impact the Gulf Coast with severe weather. Meanwhile, a heavily armed Army veteran started a fire at a federal building in New York City.

Key Facts

Tropical Storm Bertha recently formed in the Gulf of Mexico.
The storm is heading towards the Gulf Coast.
Severe weather is affecting many parts of the United States.
An Army veteran, who was heavily armed, started a fire in a federal building.
This event occurred in New York City.
The news report covers multiple major incidents in the U.S. on the same day.

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CBS News

Shock and anger after top Ghanaian politician sentenced to 20 years for illegal mining

July 21, 2026 • World • BBC World

Summary

Bernard Antwi Boasiako, a senior politician in Ghana's main opposition party, was sentenced to 20 years in prison and fined for illegal mining activities. The court found he allowed mining without government approval, a decision that has caused strong reactions from both his party and environmental groups.

Key Facts

Bernard Antwi Boasiako is the chairman of Ghana’s Ashanti region for the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
He was sentenced to 20 years in jail with hard labor and fined over $10,000 for illegal mining.
The charges were related to allowing unapproved mining through his company, Akonta Mining.
Illegal mining, known locally as "galamsey," has harmed Ghana’s environment including rivers and forests.
The NPP claims the conviction is politically motivated and has started legal challenges.
Prosecutors said Boasiako let two people mine without official permits on his company’s land.
Environmental groups welcomed the conviction as a warning to others who support illegal mining.
Ghana has been trying to reduce illegal mining since 2017, even using the military in enforcement.

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BBC World

UN says 144 migrants and refugees reported dead or missing off the coast of Mauritania

July 21, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

The United Nations reported that 144 migrants and refugees died or went missing after their boats sank off the coast of Mauritania. Rescue operations saved 387 people from several boats between July 14 and 18, but many others lost their lives trying to cross from West Africa to Europe.

Key Facts

144 migrants and refugees were reported dead or missing after maritime accidents near Mauritania.
Three rescue operations brought 387 people safely ashore in Nouadhibou, Mauritania.
One boat from Gambia had 143 people dead or missing, with only 38 survivors, including two children who lost their families.
The journey was from West Africa towards Spain, considered very dangerous due to long distances and poor boat conditions.
So far in 2026, 2,147 people were rescued in 17 disembarkations in Mauritania.
The number of migrants arriving in the Canary Islands is down 61% compared to 2025, with 4,400 arrivals reported by mid-July.
The sea route from West Africa to the Canary Islands is one of the deadliest for migrants.
UNHCR highlighted the ongoing human risks of these migration attempts.

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France24

Carney blasts new Trump tariffs: ‘Direct violation’ of trade deal

July 21, 2026 • Business • The Hill

Summary

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney criticized new tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump on Canadian exports. President Trump announced a 50 percent tax on several products from Canada, accusing it of unfair trade practices.

Key Facts

The Trump administration introduced a 50 percent tariff on some Canadian exports.
President Trump signed three orders to enforce these new tariffs.
He accused Canada of having unfair or discriminatory trade policies.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney strongly opposed the tariffs.
Carney described the tariffs as a continuation of previous actions against Canada.
The tariffs affect trade between the United States and Canada.
This move could impact businesses and consumers in both countries.
The new tariffs represent a significant change in U.S.-Canada trade relations.

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The Hill

Two in five Americans believe stock market only serves the top 1%

July 21, 2026 • Business • Guardian World

Summary

A recent Harris Poll shows that 40% of Americans think the stock market only benefits the richest 1% and is not for ordinary people. Many people also confuse the stock market with the overall economy and are uncertain about their strengths and risks.

Key Facts

Two in five Americans believe the stock market mainly helps the top 1% of wealthiest people.
Almost 40% do not know the stock market and the economy are different things.
Two-thirds wrongly think a rising stock market means the economy is growing.
The stock market has grown this year, with the Dow Jones up 9% and Nasdaq up 12.5%.
Half of the stock market is owned by the wealthiest 1%, while the poorest half owns just 1%.
Inflation cooled slightly to 3.5% in June but is still above pre-war levels.
Many young adults are investing earlier, sometimes in riskier assets like AI startups, cryptocurrencies, or day trading.
About one-third of Americans would rather try to get higher returns from gambling than from the stock market, especially younger generations.

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Guardian World Guardian US

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez should run for president | Bhaskar Sunkara

July 21, 2026 • Us • Guardian US

Summary

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) surprised many by beating a long-time incumbent in 2018 and has since become a prominent voice for progressive ideas like Medicare for All and the Green New Deal. Her support comes mainly from young and educated voters, and she has helped increase interest in socialism among younger Americans.

Key Facts

In 2018, AOC defeated Joe Crowley, a well-established Democratic leader.
Some Democratic leaders initially dismissed or criticized her.
AOC strongly supports progressive policies such as Medicare for All and the Green New Deal.
She has gained a large following, especially among young people and college-educated voters.
American socialism today draws support mostly from young, educated urbanites rather than traditional working-class groups.
The Democratic Socialists of America now has over 120,000 members.
AOC’s use of language sometimes clashes with broader public understanding, such as the debate over the terms "Latinx" and "Latine."
Her Green New Deal proposal aims to address environmental issues and help historically marginalized groups.

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Guardian US

Melinda French Gates on perimenopause: It took 3 doctors to diagnose me

July 21, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

Melinda French Gates said it took three doctors to diagnose her perimenopause even though she had access to good healthcare. She explained that many doctors are not well trained in menopause, which makes it hard for women to get proper treatment.

Key Facts

Melinda French Gates experienced perimenopause in her early 40s.
It took three doctors to diagnose and treat her perimenopause.
Only about one-third of OB-GYN doctors in the U.S. receive training in menopause.
A 2022 survey showed that 31.3% of OB-GYN residents had menopause education during their training.
Many menopausal women struggle with symptoms that affect their work.
One in ten women have left or are thinking about leaving their jobs due to menopause symptoms.
French Gates discussed her experience and women’s health on the new podcast "Healthful".
The podcast episode is available on the Healthful YouTube channel and other podcast platforms.

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CBS News

Melinda French Gates: "It took me three doctors to really diagnose" my perimenopause symptoms

July 21, 2026 • World • CBS News

Summary

Melinda French Gates shared that she began experiencing symptoms of perimenopause in her early 40s, shortly after having her last child in her late 30s. It took visits to three different doctors before she received the correct diagnosis and treatment.

Key Facts

Melinda French Gates started noticing perimenopause symptoms in her early 40s.
She had her last child in her late 30s.
She initially did not expect to have perimenopause symptoms so soon after childbirth.
Three doctors were consulted before she got the right diagnosis.
After the diagnosis, she received appropriate treatments for her symptoms.

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CBS News

What Trump didn’t say about election interference

July 21, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

President Donald Trump gave a speech about the 2020 election but did not show any evidence of election interference. His statements did not agree with official reports from U.S. intelligence agencies.

Key Facts

President Trump spoke about the 2020 election.
He claimed there was election interference.
He did not provide proof to support his claims.
U.S. intelligence agencies have assessed there was no interference.
His speech conflicted with these official reports.

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The Hill

CVS announces new pharmacy option for pet owners

July 21, 2026 • Business • ABC News

Summary

CVS Health announced that over 9,000 CVS Pharmacy locations across the U.S. will now offer prescription medications for dogs and cats. Pet owners can bring prescriptions from their veterinarians or have them sent directly to CVS, and they can pick up medications in store or get them delivered.

Key Facts

CVS Pharmacy now dispenses common pet medications like antibiotics, allergy medicines, flea and tick treatments, insulin, and pain relievers.
More than 9,000 CVS locations nationwide participate in this service.
Pet prescriptions can use CVS services such as automatic refills and prescription synchronization.
Some pet medications may be available for home delivery through CVS.
Pet owners can add their pets to their profile on CVS.com and manage prescriptions via the CVS Health app.
CVS plans to add electronic prescription features for veterinarians in the near future.
Similar pet medication services are offered by retailers like Publix, Costco, Walmart, and Walgreens.

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ABC News

The US Must Not Abandon Victims of Foreign Online Scam Centers | Opinion

July 21, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

Many people from around the world are trafficked to scam centers in Cambodia where they are forced to cheat others, including U.S. citizens, and suffer abuse. The U.S. government has used sanctions to target these operations but has cut funding for groups that help survivors, leaving many victims without support after rescue.

Key Facts

A young woman named Kenyagi was trafficked from Uganda to a scam center in Cambodia called "Park 8."
Victims at these scam centers are forced to run fraud schemes targeting mainly U.S. citizens.
Kenyagi was abused, threatened with torture, raped, and forced to have an abortion before escaping.
The FBI estimates U.S. citizens lost over $16 billion to scam operations in 2025.
The U.S. used sanctions against some scam groups, which led to some arrests but did not completely stop scamming.
Sanctions alone have not ended the scam industry, and some scams continued after sanctions on Cambodian officials.
The Trump administration cut nearly all funding from USAID for anti-human trafficking groups in the region.
Many survivors of these scams and human trafficking did not get proper care or help after rescue due to lack of funds.

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Newsweek

WATCH: 10-foot great white shark stalks swimmers off Southern California

July 21, 2026 • World • ABC News

Summary

A 10-foot great white shark was seen very close to swimmers off the coast of Southern California. The encounter was captured on drone video showing the shark near a group of children in the water.

Key Facts

The shark is a great white, known for being large and powerful.
It measured about 10 feet long.
The incident happened off the Southern California coast.
Drone footage captured the shark swimming near children in the water.
No injuries or attacks were reported during the encounter.
Great white sharks are common in this region during certain times of the year.
Officials often warn swimmers when sharks are spotted close to shore.

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ABC News

London-based civil servants offered move to No 10 North in Manchester

July 21, 2026 • Us • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The UK government is encouraging some London-based civil servants to move to Manchester to work at a new government office called No 10 North. The office is currently at Heron House and will eventually move to a new building planned for 2032. Staff moving north will get relocation support, and the office aims to hire about 300 people within 18 months.

Key Facts

Civil servants in London have been offered packages to relocate to Manchester.
No 10 North is a new Downing Street branch currently based in Heron House, Manchester.
The longer-term location will be a "Digital Campus" building in Manchester, expected to finish in 2032.
The plan includes moving staff from Whitehall departments like Treasury and Cabinet Office.
Many government leaders from Northern England are involved, including Andy Burnham.
Around 300 new employees are planned to be hired within 18 months.
Some senior figures from Greater Manchester Combined Authority have agreed to move to No 10 North.
There may be a dedicated secretary of state and junior minister for No 10 North, but this is not confirmed yet.

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BBC Top Stories

German railway to ban consuming alcohol at all its stations, with some exemptions

July 21, 2026 • World • AP News

Summary

Germany’s national railway company, Deutsche Bahn, will ban drinking alcohol at all 5,400 train stations by October 15 to improve safety and cleanliness. Some exceptions will apply, such as for bars and restaurants inside stations, and passengers can still bring unopened alcohol with them.

Key Facts

The alcohol ban will be introduced gradually across all German train stations by October 15, 2026.
30 stations, including those in Cologne, Hamburg, and Munich, already have the ban in place.
Berlin’s main and Gesundbrunnen stations will start the ban on September 1.
The ban aims to reduce violence linked to alcohol consumption at stations.
People who ignore the ban can be removed from stations or banned permanently if they offend repeatedly.
Station bars and restaurants can continue to serve alcohol.
Passengers can carry closed bottles or cans of alcohol in bags but cannot drink openly at stations.
The ban does not apply to alcohol consumed on board the trains, where drinks are still sold, especially in dining cars.

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AP News

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