The Actual News

Neutral summaries of your favorite news sources — just the facts.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

Rights group accuses UAE of being transit point for mercenaries on way to Sudan

Rights group accuses UAE of being transit point for mercenaries on way to Sudan

May 26, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A rights group, Human Rights Watch, says Colombian mercenaries were recruited by a company in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and passed through UAE military bases to help a paramilitary group in Sudan. The UAE denies these claims. The mercenaries took part in fighting and were linked to serious human rights abuses in Sudan’s civil war.

Key Facts

  • Colombian mercenaries were hired by a UAE-based company to support the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan.
  • These mercenaries traveled through UAE airports and military facilities without passport stamps.
  • The RSF has been fighting Sudan’s regular army since April 2023.
  • Over 150,000 people have died and nearly 13 million displaced due to the conflict.
  • Human Rights Watch found these mercenaries acted as fighters, drone pilots, and instructors for the RSF.
  • The RSF is accused of war crimes including mass killings, rape, and destruction of civilian areas.
  • The UAE denies allowing recruitment or training of foreign fighters on its soil.
  • Reports say mercenaries were present during major attacks in Darfur and the city of el-Fasher in late 2025.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

BBC Top Stories BBC World
Woman killed by airborne umbrella at South Carolina restaurant

Woman killed by airborne umbrella at South Carolina restaurant

May 26, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

A woman died after an umbrella was lifted by strong wind and hit her while she was dining outside at a restaurant in South Carolina. The coroner’s office confirmed the cause of death.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened at a restaurant patio in South Carolina.
  • A strong wind suddenly lifted an umbrella from a table.
  • The umbrella struck the woman, causing fatal injuries.
  • She was dining with her husband at the time.
  • The coroner’s office provided the official information about the cause of death.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

The Hill
India, US strike critical minerals deal: What’s in it, why does it matter?

India, US strike critical minerals deal: What’s in it, why does it matter?

May 26, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

India and the United States have signed a deal to work together on securing critical minerals and rare earth elements, which are important for technology and defense. This agreement aims to improve mining, processing, recycling, and investment in these minerals to reduce reliance on single suppliers like China.

Key Facts

  • India and the US signed a framework agreement to cooperate on critical minerals and rare earths.
  • The deal was finalized in New Delhi between Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
  • Critical minerals are used in batteries, electronics, military equipment, semiconductors, and renewable energy products.
  • The US depends heavily on imports for many critical minerals, often relying on China for supply and processing.
  • China controls about 90% of the world’s rare earth mineral processing and has large deposits.
  • The framework aims to protect supply chains from market manipulation and reduce dependence on single sources.
  • India holds significant reserves of 30 identified critical minerals, including 13.15 million tonnes of monazite, which contains rare earth elements.
  • The agreement connects to broader group efforts, including the Quad countries and US initiatives on secure supply chains for semiconductors and AI technology.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Al Jazeera
What Are the Abraham Accords, Now Part of Trump's Peace Plans?

What Are the Abraham Accords, Now Part of Trump's Peace Plans?

May 26, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

President Donald Trump has urged several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey, to join the Abraham Accords as part of a new push for peace with Iran. The Abraham Accords are agreements that normalize relations between Israel and some Arab nations, originally signed during Trump's first term. Current talks with Iran face challenges like nuclear issues and regional conflicts.

Key Facts

  • President Trump wants Arab states plus Pakistan and Turkey to join the Abraham Accords to improve peace efforts with Iran.
  • The UAE and Bahrain are already part of the Abraham Accords, while Saudi Arabia and others have not joined due to political concerns.
  • The Abraham Accords were first signed in 2020 to normalize relations between Israel and some Arab countries.
  • Countries in the Accords include the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan (agreement delayed), Morocco, and Kazakhstan.
  • Iran and the U.S. are in complex negotiations about Iran's nuclear program and control over the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Iran has blocked the Strait of Hormuz for nearly three months, affecting global fuel prices and markets.
  • Recent U.S. military strikes targeted Iranian missile sites and naval vessels as part of self-defense actions.
  • U.S. officials suggest a peace deal negotiation with Iran could still take several days despite hopes for quick progress.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Newsweek
Jury sworn in at trial of Jeffrey Donaldson for alleged sex offences

Jury sworn in at trial of Jeffrey Donaldson for alleged sex offences

May 26, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A jury has been sworn in at the trial of Jeffrey Donaldson, a former Northern Ireland MP and leader of the Democratic Unionist Party, who faces multiple sexual offence charges covering 21 years. His wife, Eleanor Donaldson, is also charged with helping him but will have a separate trial of facts due to mental health issues.

Key Facts

  • Jeffrey Donaldson, 63, is charged with rape, gross indecency, and indecent assault from 1985 to 2006 involving two alleged victims.
  • His wife, Eleanor Donaldson, 60, faces charges of aiding and abetting rape and indecent assault but is unfit for a normal trial due to mental health.
  • Donaldson resigned as MP and leader of the DUP after being arrested in March 2024.
  • The trial is held at Newry Crown Court and is expected to last about four weeks.
  • The wife’s trial of facts will run at the same time but cannot lead to a criminal conviction.
  • Donaldson was a key figure in Northern Irish politics and helped negotiate the post-Brexit Windsor framework.
  • The DUP replaced Donaldson with Gavin Robinson to continue party leadership and work on the Windsor framework.
  • Northern Ireland’s attorney general warned against social media posts that might reveal victims’ identities or influence the jury.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Guardian World
Why US support for Ukraine must continue

Why US support for Ukraine must continue

May 26, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The article discusses four important principles that justify ongoing U.S. support for Ukraine. It argues that these principles create a strong reason for the United States to continue helping Ukraine.

Key Facts

  • The article identifies four key principles to consider in supporting Ukraine.
  • These principles are used to explain why support should continue.
  • The discussion is focused on U.S. involvement and aid to Ukraine.
  • The article aims to make a clear case for sustained assistance.
  • No detailed policy actions or specific types of support are mentioned in the excerpt.
  • The context is related to international relations and global stability.
  • The focus is on the importance of the U.S. role in supporting Ukraine.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

The Hill
From us

The news is free. Support if you want.

No ads. Pay what this is worth to you — most people choose $3.99/month.

Support us
Video Interview: 'What's The Story, Wishbone?' Director Joey Stewart

Video Interview: 'What's The Story, Wishbone?' Director Joey Stewart

May 26, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The TV show "Wishbone," featuring a dog who imagines classic stories, was popular in the 1990s and ended in 1998. A new documentary called "What's the Story, Wishbone?" directed by Joey Stewart, tells the story of the show’s creation, production, and cancellation. The documentary will air on public TV starting May 27 and will be available online June 10, 2026.

Key Facts

  • "Wishbone" was a PBS TV series with 50 episodes and a final movie released in 1998.
  • The show starred a Jack Russell Terrier named Wishbone who imagined himself in famous literary stories.
  • "Wishbone" was well-liked by children and adults for making classic literature fun and accessible.
  • The series was canceled during the filming of its final movie, "Wishbone's Dog Days of the West."
  • Joey Stewart, who started as assistant director on "Wishbone," directed the new documentary about the show.
  • The documentary is called "What's the Story, Wishbone?" and covers the show's history and impact.
  • It will first air on Public Television Stations on May 27, 2026.
  • The documentary will be available on digital platforms on June 10, 2026.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Newsweek
Josh Johnson on storytelling in comedy, his new special and rise to fame

Josh Johnson on storytelling in comedy, his new special and rise to fame

May 26, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Comedian Josh Johnson spoke with CBS News about how he uses everyday experiences to create humor. He discussed the importance of storytelling in his comedy and shared details about his first HBO special, called "Symphony."

Key Facts

  • Josh Johnson is a comedian known for using storytelling in his jokes.
  • He finds humor in daily life situations.
  • "Symphony" is the title of his first comedy special on HBO.
  • He appeared on CBS Mornings to talk about his comedy style and career.
  • The conversation was featured on CBS News and its app.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

CBS News
Starbucks faces South Korean backlash following campaign echoing 1987 massacre

Starbucks faces South Korean backlash following campaign echoing 1987 massacre

May 26, 2026 • France24

Summary

Starbucks South Korea faced strong public anger after a promotion called "Tank Day" was launched. Many people saw the name as a reference to a 1980 military crackdown where many pro-democracy protesters were killed. Starbucks quickly canceled the campaign, but criticism continued, leading the local chairman to apologize twice.

Key Facts

  • Starbucks South Korea created a promotion named "Tank Day."
  • The campaign was linked by many to a deadly 1980 military crackdown on protesters.
  • The crackdown resulted in hundreds of deaths during a push for democracy.
  • Public reaction in South Korea was very negative and angry.
  • Starbucks stopped the promotion soon after the backlash.
  • The chairman of Starbucks South Korea’s local majority owner apologized twice.
  • The controversy continues despite the campaign's cancellation.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

France24
BTS and K-pop win big at the American Music Awards

BTS and K-pop win big at the American Music Awards

May 26, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The 2026 American Music Awards celebrated the growing impact of K-pop music. The popular K-pop group BTS won several awards during the event.

Key Facts

  • The American Music Awards took place in 2026.
  • The ceremony highlighted the influence of K-pop music worldwide.
  • BTS, a famous K-pop group, won multiple awards.
  • The event was covered by CBS News.
  • Pop music journalist Brittany Spanos discussed the significance of K-pop’s success at the awards.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

CBS News
What are ‘Wrench Attacks?’ Nancy Guthrie Theory Emerges

What are ‘Wrench Attacks?’ Nancy Guthrie Theory Emerges

May 26, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Nancy Guthrie, 84, disappeared from her home in Arizona on February 1. A former FBI agent suggested her disappearance might be related to a type of crime called a "wrench attack," where criminals use force to get access to cryptocurrencies.

Key Facts

  • Nancy Guthrie went missing near Tucson, Arizona, in early February 2026.
  • Authorities think she was taken against her will but have not named suspects or made arrests.
  • "Wrench attacks" involve using physical violence or threats to make victims hand over crypto access.
  • These attacks have been increasing globally, with 34 incidents in the first four months of 2026, causing losses around $101 million.
  • A related home invasion happened in Scottsdale, Arizona, 90 minutes north of Guthrie’s home, tied to attempts to steal cryptocurrency.
  • Criminals target people who have crypto wealth or who are connected to someone with it, especially those who show off their wealth publicly.
  • Past wrench attacks include kidnappings and torture to force victims to give up crypto passwords.
  • Officials believe these crimes are rising because cryptocurrency transactions are harder to trace than traditional money.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Newsweek
Internet starts coming back in Iran after months-long blackout

Internet starts coming back in Iran after months-long blackout

May 26, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Internet service has begun returning in Iran after nearly three months of being cut off. The government stopped internet access following US and Israeli attacks on February 28, aiming to prevent spying and cyber attacks.

Key Facts

  • Iran’s internet was shut down for almost three months starting February 28.
  • The shutdown happened after US and Israeli military actions targeting Iran.
  • Iran’s first vice-president said the internet return is a step toward controlled internet access.
  • Internet monitoring groups reported partial restoration around 13:00 GMT.
  • Most internet networks in Iran remain offline despite partial restoration.
  • This shutdown is one of the longest national internet blackouts recorded globally.
  • Past internet restorations in Iran have been slow and unpredictable.
  • In January, there was also an internet shutdown during a crackdown on protests.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

BBC Top Stories BBC World
From us

No ads. Just the news.

It's free for everyone. If it's useful, support us at a price that feels right.

Support us
'Europe grieves with Belgium' following fatal crash between train and school bus

'Europe grieves with Belgium' following fatal crash between train and school bus

May 26, 2026 • France24

Summary

Four people, including two children, died in northern Belgium when a train hit a school minibus on May 26, 2026. The level crossing barriers were down and closed at the time. An investigation is ongoing to find out how the bus ended up on the tracks.

Key Facts

  • The accident happened in northern Belgium on May 26, 2026.
  • A train collided with a school minibus carrying children.
  • Four people died, including two children.
  • The level crossing barriers were lowered, indicating the crossing was closed.
  • Camera footage shows the barriers were down when the crash occurred.
  • Authorities are investigating how the bus entered the closed crossing.
  • European leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen, expressed condolences.
  • The accident prompted mourning across Europe.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

France24
Iran: New US strike violated ceasefire

Iran: New US strike violated ceasefire

May 26, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Iran said that the United States broke a ceasefire agreement on April 8 after recent U.S. military attacks. The U.S. described these military actions as defensive. Iran’s accusation raises the possibility of more Iranian attacks on U.S. bases and regional allies.

Key Facts

  • Iran accused the U.S. of violating a ceasefire set on April 8.
  • The U.S. military carried out new strikes they called defensive actions.
  • Iran warned this could lead to more Iranian attacks on U.S. military bases.
  • Iranian attacks could also target U.S. allies in the region.
  • The situation increases tensions between the U.S. and Iran in the region.
  • The exact details of the strikes or their locations were not given in the summary.
  • The ceasefire was intended to reduce conflict before these recent events.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

The Hill
Sonny Rollins, saxophonist and restless genius of jazz, dead at 95

Sonny Rollins, saxophonist and restless genius of jazz, dead at 95

May 26, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Sonny Rollins, a famous jazz saxophonist known for his unique style and long career, died at age 95 at his home in Woodstock, New York. He was admired for his skill in improvisation and influence on jazz music for over 50 years.

Key Facts

  • Sonny Rollins was a tenor saxophonist and important figure in jazz music.
  • He died at age 95, living at home in Woodstock, New York.
  • Rollins was known for his bold tone and constant experimentation in jazz styles.
  • He was one of the last great musicians from the bebop era, alongside John Coltrane and Charlie Parker.
  • Rollins won Grammy awards for jazz instrumental albums in 2001 and 2006.
  • He stopped performing in 2014 due to lung disease called pulmonary fibrosis.
  • Early in his career, he struggled with heroin addiction and spent time in jail.
  • Rollins began playing with famous jazz musicians like Thelonious Monk and Miles Davis while still a teenager.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

PBS NewsHour
Kyiv braces for renewed attack, European allies condemn Moscow's call to abandon embassies

Kyiv braces for renewed attack, European allies condemn Moscow's call to abandon embassies

May 26, 2026 • France24

Summary

Russia launched over 100 drones and two ballistic missiles at Ukraine between May 25 and 26, targeting Kyiv among other locations. Moscow warned foreign citizens, including diplomats, to leave Kyiv and advised residents to avoid military and government buildings, while European countries condemned Russia’s calls to abandon embassies.

Key Facts

  • Russia attacked Ukraine with more than 100 drones and two ballistic missiles on May 25-26, 2026.
  • Kyiv’s foreign ministry said the threat of heavy air strikes from Moscow was not new.
  • Russia urged foreign citizens and diplomats to leave Kyiv.
  • Residents in Kyiv were told to stay away from military and government sites.
  • European allies criticized Russia’s order for embassy staff to leave Kyiv.
  • The attacks and warnings increased tensions amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
  • The news report included comments from a correspondent reporting from the Ukrainian city of Dnipro.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

France24
'Saxophone Colossus' Sonny Rollins dies at 95

'Saxophone Colossus' Sonny Rollins dies at 95

May 26, 2026 • France24

Summary

Sonny Rollins, a famous jazz saxophone player known as the "Saxophone Colossus," died at the age of 95. He passed away at his home in upstate New York and left a lasting impact on modern jazz music.

Key Facts

  • Sonny Rollins was a tenor saxophonist.
  • He was nicknamed the "Saxophone Colossus."
  • His career lasted several decades.
  • Rollins helped define modern jazz music.
  • He died at age 95.
  • He passed away at his home in upstate New York.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

France24
U.S.-Iran peace deal progress may be in jeopardy after American "self-defense" strikes

U.S.-Iran peace deal progress may be in jeopardy after American "self-defense" strikes

May 26, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The United States carried out strikes against Iran, stating they were acts of self-defense. These strikes may threaten the progress of ongoing talks aimed at reaching a peace agreement between the two countries.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. launched military strikes against Iran.
  • The U.S. described these strikes as actions of self-defense.
  • There have been ongoing talks between the U.S. and Iran to reach a peace deal.
  • The recent strikes could disrupt or end the progress made in these talks.
  • The news was reported by CBS News correspondent Imtiaz Tyab.
  • The situation affects diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Iran.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

CBS News
From us

Pay what you want

We're reader-funded instead of ad-funded. You decide what no-spin news is worth.

Support us
Iran condemns US strikes as 'gross violation' of ceasefire

Iran condemns US strikes as 'gross violation' of ceasefire

May 26, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Iran criticized recent US air strikes near the Strait of Hormuz, calling them a serious breach of a ceasefire agreement that began in April. The US said the strikes targeted Iranian missile sites and boats placing mines, and the situation could affect ongoing peace talks.

Key Facts

  • Iran says US strikes near the Strait of Hormuz violated the ceasefire established in April.
  • US Central Command said the strikes were defensive actions against Iranian missile sites and boats.
  • The strikes took place in southern Iran, near the Hormozgan region along the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Iran warned it would respond and defend itself if attacked again.
  • US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said peace talks are still possible but might take a few days.
  • Talks focus on issues like Iran’s frozen funds abroad and its uranium stockpile.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key shipping route for about 20% of the world’s oil.
  • Iran has blocked the strait since a conflict began on February 28, started by the US and Israel.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

BBC World BBC Top Stories BBC US
Europe swelters under unusually early heatwave

Europe swelters under unusually early heatwave

May 26, 2026 • France24

Summary

Western Europe is experiencing a very early and intense heatwave caused by a weather pattern called a "heat dome." Countries like France and the UK have set new temperature records for May, and the heat has led to at least seven deaths, including two people involved in sports.

Key Facts

  • A heatwave is hitting Western Europe unusually early in the spring.
  • The heatwave is caused by a "heat dome," which traps hot air over the region.
  • France and the UK have recorded their highest May temperatures ever.
  • At least seven people have died due to the heat, some while doing sports.
  • The heatwave is much hotter than normal for this time of year.
  • Officials are concerned about the effects of the extreme heat on health and safety.
  • This weather event is happening across multiple countries in Western Europe.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

France24
Save articles & personalize your feed — Create a free account