The World Eskimo Indian Olympics (WEIO) is an annual event in Fairbanks, Alaska, where Indigenous athletes from Alaska, Greenland, Siberia, and Canada compete in traditional Arctic games. These ancient games, originally practiced to build survival skills, have survived colonization and are now celebrated to preserve culture and community.
Key Facts
WEIO is held every year in Fairbanks, Alaska, attracting hundreds of Indigenous athletes.
Competitions include traditional games like the two-foot high kick and the dene stick pull.
The two-foot high kick started as a way for distant messengers to signal successful whale hunts.
Nicole Johnson set the women’s world record in the two-foot high kick in 1989 and continues to compete and support the event today.
The games are open to Indigenous participants who are at least 12 years old, with some competing into their 70s.
Indigenous communities practiced these games secretly during colonization when cultural expression was suppressed.
In recent years, the games have grown, with nearly 3,000 spectators attending last year’s event.
Community leaders like Kyle Worl emphasize preserving these traditions to pass down Indigenous knowledge and culture to younger generations.
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Japan’s parliament passed a new law making it a crime to damage or disrespect the national flag in public. People who do this and cause others strong discomfort can face up to two years in prison or a fine.
Key Facts
The law punishes public acts like burning, stomping, or throwing mud on Japan’s flag, the Hinomaru.
Penalties include up to two years in prison or a fine of up to 200,000 yen ($1,250).
The law also covers livestreaming these acts when they cause “extreme discomfort or disgust” to others.
Japan previously had laws protecting foreign flags but not its own until now.
The law does not apply to images of the flag in art, digital media, anime, manga, video games, or small paper flags used in children’s meals.
Critics say the law is vague and threatens free speech, especially for political protests.
Over 150 academics warned the law could limit political expression.
Japan’s flag has a complex history tied to its aggressive past and differs from many democratic countries’ flags in symbolism.
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A type of disease spread by ticks is becoming more common in the U.S., including some that do not show the usual warning signs like a rash. Scientists have discovered that certain tick-borne viruses can hide from the immune system, making them harder to detect and fight. Experts are watching these changes closely to better understand the risks.
Key Facts
Tick-borne diseases in the U.S. are increasing, partly due to climate change and expanding tick habitats.
Anaplasmosis is one such disease; it causes fever and aches but usually does not cause a rash, so it can be missed.
Orthornairoviruses are a family of viruses carried by ticks that can cause severe illness, including hemorrhagic fever.
These viruses use proteins called OTUs to remove immune system signals, helping them avoid detection.
A virus called PCTNV, found in Pacific Coast ticks, has a strong ability to evade the immune system in lab tests.
The Pacific Coast tick already bites humans and spreads other diseases, raising concerns about possible PCTNV infection.
More research is needed to confirm if people are being infected by this new virus.
Experts stress the importance of awareness about different types of ticks and the diseases they might carry.
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A Mexican journalist named Josue Martinez was shot and killed in a drive-by attack in Puebla, where he reported on security issues. Authorities are investigating the murder, with his work as a possible reason for the killing, amid growing violence against journalists in Mexico.
Key Facts
Josue Martinez worked as a journalist focusing on security and major local events in Puebla, Mexico.
He was killed near his home by two attackers on a motorcycle while his 13-year-old son was nearby.
The Puebla state government condemned the murder and called for a thorough investigation.
Martinez was also known as "The Jaguar" and had a background as a lawyer before becoming a journalist.
Mexico is known as one of the most dangerous countries for journalists, with many killed or attacked in recent years.
At least nine journalists were killed in Mexico in 2025, making it the second most dangerous country for reporters that year.
Previous killings and attacks on journalists have occurred in other states like Veracruz, highlighting ongoing risks.
Groups like Reporters Without Borders and the Committee to Protect Journalists report high levels of violence and impunity for crimes against journalists in Mexico.
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Russia has recruited nearly 3,000 soldiers from African countries to fight in the war in Ukraine. About one in six of these recruits has died so far, with many coming from Cameroon, Ghana, Egypt, and Kenya.
Key Facts
Russia is recruiting African soldiers to fight in Ukraine’s conflict.
Almost 3,000 African recruits have been identified.
About 1 in 6 of these recruits has died in the fighting.
The affected countries include Cameroon, Ghana, Egypt, and Kenya.
The information comes from a platform linked to Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence.
This recruitment highlights the involvement of African individuals in the Ukraine war.
The report was shared by France 24 and journalist Bastien Renouil.
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A woman received a phone call that her dog, Abbott, had died unexpectedly while on a treadmill at doggy daycare. Abbott had been rescued and fostered to give him a better life, but his sudden death left the family grieving deeply.
Key Facts
The dog named Abbott died on a treadmill at doggy daycare less than an hour after being dropped off.
Abbott was a senior shih tzu mix rescued from being euthanized after his previous owner died.
He had health issues including surgery on a leg mass and dental surgery but was improving with his foster family.
The family noticed Abbott was calm, confident, and quirky, and he helped the family members become more active.
Abbott’s vet had confirmed he was in good health for his age before his death.
The dog’s death was sudden and unexpected, creating a strong emotional impact on his foster family.
The woman coped with grief by spending time outdoors and reflecting in nature.
Her husband, who was away on a work trip during Abbott’s death, had a worsening cough and health issues during this time.
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India has introduced its first hydrogen-powered train, called the NaMo Green Rail, to help reduce pollution and promote clean energy. The train, designed and built in India, will run daily on a 90 km route between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana, producing only water vapor and heat as emissions.
Key Facts
The NaMo Green Rail is India's first domestically built hydrogen-powered train.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the train before its first trip.
The train runs two return trips daily on a 90 km route in Haryana state.
It has 10 coaches and seats about 2,600 passengers, with a top speed of 75 km/h.
The hydrogen train emits only heat and water vapor, unlike diesel trains which produce pollution.
Hydrogen trains are used in countries like Japan, China, the U.S., and Germany.
India aims to make its railways net-zero in carbon emissions by 2030.
The train supports India’s broader efforts to expand clean energy and reduce carbon emissions.
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Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed attacks on several U.S. military bases in the Middle East, including sites in Syria, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, and Jordan. The U.S. has responded with strikes on Iranian targets, and tensions have caused ship crews to avoid passing through the Strait of Hormuz due to safety fears.
Key Facts
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it attacked multiple U.S. military bases in the Middle East on Friday.
Targets included bases in Syria, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, and Jordan.
The U.S. military has conducted six nights of strikes on Iranian military targets in response.
There are no independent confirmations from U.S. officials about the damage claimed by Iran.
Ship crews are avoiding the Strait of Hormuz because of safety concerns after the U.S.-Iran ceasefire ended.
A maritime risk expert said the situation has returned to a "worst case scenario" with many vessels unwilling to travel through the strait.
Attacks have disrupted power and water stations in Kuwait and caused injuries in Qatar.
Tensions have contributed to higher oil prices worldwide.
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A leaked set of secret documents revealed that Russia ran a propaganda campaign called "Project Afrika" targeting West and Central African media. This operation placed hundreds of articles spreading Russian views, including anti-France and anti-Ukraine messages, in African news outlets from June to November 2024.
Key Facts
"Project Afrika" is a Russian campaign to influence African public opinion through media.
The campaign published 644 articles in at least 35 media outlets in West and Central Africa.
Russia spent over $300,000 on planting these articles.
The operation was first started by the Wagner Group mercenaries, then taken over by Russian secret services in 2023.
Senegalese media outlets, like PressAfrik, unknowingly published Russian propaganda articles.
Some articles were prepared and delivered ready to publish by local intermediaries for a payment between $250 and $700 each.
A Cameroonian journalist named in the documents denied involvement and called the papers fake.
This operation is part of Russia’s broader strategy to expand influence in Africa and push specific political messages.
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A big cat called a Savannah cat was found in a plant pot in a garden after being missing for about two months near Norwich, England. The cat was injured and taken to a vet, and it was confirmed to belong to a local owner.
Key Facts
The escaped Savannah cat had been missing since May and was found in mid-July.
It was discovered injured in a plant pot in a backyard in Bramerton, near Norwich.
The cat is a mix between a serval (a wild African cat) and a domestic cat.
The cat’s name is Blaze, and it was microchipped, which helped identify the owner.
Blaze had a broken paw and a chest wound when caught.
The cat had been spotted roaming in the countryside, about four miles from its home.
Owners of some wild cats need a special licence, but it was believed the owner of this F2 generation Savannah cat did not require one.
There are a few exotic cats like Savannahs and servals registered in private homes in South Norfolk.
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Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler died at age 75 in a hospital in Portugal due to an illness she was being treated for. Her family announced a celebration of life service in Swansea, where fans can pay their respects as her coffin travels through her hometown.
Key Facts
Bonnie Tyler died unexpectedly on 8 July at a hospital in Portugal.
She was 75 years old and known for songs like "Total Eclipse of the Heart" and "Holding Out For A Hero."
Her coffin will be brought to her home in Mumbles on 15 August, with fans invited to line the streets.
A celebration of life will take place at St Mary’s Church in Swansea on 17 August.
After the service, her coffin will travel through her hometown of Skewen before a private family funeral.
Tyler was married to Robert Sullivan for more than 50 years.
The family asked for donations to two charities important to her instead of flowers: Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales and Cerebral Palsy Cymru.
Bonnie Tyler is remembered for her warm personality and lasting impact on music worldwide.
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Green Party leader Zack Polanski has asked the government for extra security after the death of Ann Widdecombe, who was found murdered at her home. A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and terrorism charges, and there is growing concern about the safety of politicians in the UK.
Key Facts
Ann Widdecombe was found dead in her home last Thursday; a 28-year-old man is arrested on suspicion of her murder and terrorism offences.
Green Party leader Zack Polanski says he has not been offered government security but now falls under a police safety program called Operation Ford.
Polanski reports facing threats including antisemitic and homophobic abuse since becoming party leader.
There are two police programs for safety: Operation Ford (for local officials) and Operation Bridger (for Members of Parliament).
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage's security has been debated, with claims that the government failed to provide him enough protection; the government denies responsibility for deciding MPs’ security.
Security concerns for UK politicians grew after the murders of MPs Sir David Amess in 2021 and Jo Cox in 2016.
In May 2024, the Conservative government announced a £31 million fund to improve politicians’ security.
Former counter-terrorism chief Neil Basu said protecting all MPs at a high level would require thousands of new police officers.
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Israel’s parliament, called the Knesset, will dissolve before the national elections on October 27, 2026. The election will decide the next government amid ongoing wars and political tensions, with no party likely to win a clear majority, meaning coalitions will be needed to govern.
Key Facts
The Knesset is Israel’s one-house parliament and will dissolve before October 27, 2026 elections.
This is the first time since 1988 that the Knesset has completed a full term before dissolving.
Israel uses a nationwide voting system where people vote for party lists, not individual candidates.
Parties must win at least 3.25% of the vote to get seats in the 120-member Knesset.
No single party has ever won a majority, so coalitions between parties are necessary.
Main candidates include Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party and former military leader Gadi Eizenkot’s Yashar party.
The opposition parties have not clearly opposed Israel’s ongoing wars or the conflict in Gaza.
Public opinion currently favors right-leaning parties, with no major shifts toward ending conflicts.
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Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy removed Mykhailo Fedorov from his role as defence minister after seven months. Fedorov had pushed for military reforms, including using new technology and fighting corruption, which upset some military leaders but gained public support.
Key Facts
Mykhailo Fedorov, without military experience, was Ukraine’s defence minister for seven months starting in January.
Fedorov focused on reforms like better logistics, reducing corruption, and managing Western aid money transparently.
He increased the use of drones and robots in Ukraine’s military operations to disrupt Russian supply lines.
Fedorov faced resistance from military leadership, especially General Oleksandr Syrskii, who led combat operations.
Syrskii criticized Fedorov’s reforms and was unpopular among many Ukrainians.
Zelenskyy’s decision to remove Fedorov led to public protests in Kyiv and other cities.
Supporters saw Fedorov as a smart reformer who improved military efficiency.
The protests reflected some political tension for President Zelenskyy during wartime.
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China’s economy grew at its slowest pace in over three years, with a 4.3% increase in GDP in the second quarter. While exports, especially in technology and electric vehicles, surged, domestic spending stayed weak, causing concern about job creation and economic balance.
Key Facts
China’s GDP growth slowed to 4.3% in the second quarter, down from 5% in the previous quarter.
Exports rose sharply, with June exports up 27% compared to a year ago, contributing to a trade surplus of $125.6 billion.
Domestic consumption remains low, partly due to losses in the real estate sector and cautious consumer spending after COVID-19.
Many Chinese citizens lost money tied up in property investments, leading to less spending and more saving.
Job creation, especially for people under 25, is not keeping up, causing underemployment and lower incomes.
Experts warn that relying mostly on exports for growth could worsen domestic economic problems.
The government is focusing on reducing debt rather than increasing spending to stimulate the economy.
Average GDP growth for the year so far is about 4.7 percent, and officials are not expected to take major emergency measures.
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A large forest fire in the Fontainebleau Forest near Paris has reignited while firefighters continue to battle the flames. French President Emmanuel Macron visited the area to support the nearly 1,000 firefighters working on the fire, and three people are now facing legal charges as part of the investigation into the cause.
Key Facts
The Fontainebleau Forest fire is considered one of the worst in France since World War II.
About 950 firefighters are actively working to put out the fire and prevent flare-ups.
President Emmanuel Macron visited the forest to show support for the firefighters.
Two workers and their company manager appeared before a judge on charges related to the fire.
Investigations suggest arson may have played a role in starting the fire.
The fire has caused significant damage to the forest area south of Paris.
The fire reignited despite ongoing firefighting efforts and wet conditions following storms.
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Experts say climate change is causing more heavy rains in the US, leading to dangerous flash floods that will become more common and severe. Many areas are not prepared because old infrastructure and building rules do not match the new rain patterns, increasing the risk to people and property.
Key Facts
Climate change is causing heavier rainfall and more frequent flash floods in many US states.
Recent floods affected places like Texas, Alaska, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
Warmer air and oceans cause more evaporation, putting more water vapor in the air, which fuels storms and heavy rain.
Flash floods happen especially in hilly areas, cities with lots of concrete, and narrow canyons.
Many US cities still use very old drainage systems that cannot manage extreme rainfall.
Building homes and businesses in flood-prone areas continues, despite risks.
Some places have successfully appealed to federal agencies to change flood risk maps, allowing development in dangerous zones.
Experts call for stronger rules to prevent building in floodplains and for better investment in infrastructure to handle heavy rains.
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Chancellor Friedrich Merz of Germany is meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss new joint defence projects. This meeting aims to strengthen cooperation after a previous common fighter jet project between the two countries failed.
Key Facts
The meeting takes place near Cologne at a German Air Force base.
The focus is on creating new joint projects in the defence industry.
The cooperation follows the failure of a previous common fighter jet project.
Chancellor Merz is hosting President Macron on the eve of a Franco-German cabinet meeting.
The goal is to improve European defence collaboration between France and Germany.
The summit is part of broader efforts to enhance security and defence in Europe.
Both countries are key players in European defence and want to work more closely.
Defence cooperation is an important topic for both national governments.
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Israel’s parliament has been officially dissolved, setting the date for national elections on October 27. This election is important as it will decide whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government, known for hardline policies, will remain in power.
Key Facts
The 25th Knesset completed its full four-year term for the first time since 1988.
The Israeli parliament passed a Party Funding Law to allow political parties to access state funds for their campaigns, confirming the October 27 election date.
Netanyahu’s coalition passed several controversial laws, including changing media regulation and shielding ultra-Orthodox men from military service.
The current coalition is the most nationalist government in Israel’s history.
Public opinion polls show Netanyahu’s Likud party trailing behind the opposition.
The new centrist Yashar party, led by former military chief Gadi Eisenkot, is gaining popularity and has surpassed Likud in recent polls.
Secular right-wing leader Avigdor Liberman announced his party aims to win and replace the current government in the upcoming election.
The elections come amid public anger over military actions against Iran and other conflicts in the region.
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A woman named Sam Ramsdell discovered a hidden door in the barn of her 200-year-old farmhouse in Maine. Behind the door, she found many old items that had been untouched for about 100 years, including bottles, tools, toys, and coins. She is working with a local historian to learn more about these artifacts.
Key Facts
Sam Ramsdell moved back to Maine in 2023 and started renovating an 1820 farmhouse once owned by Captain William Bucknam.
She found a secret door in the barn floor that had been overlooked for at least a century.
Inside, she discovered nearly 250 intact bottles from 1840 to 1920, old shoes, inkwells, children's toys, coins, jewelry, farm tools, and animal bones.
Some bottles may be worth $200 to $400 each, according to a local historian.
The items help reveal details about the daily lives of the farmhouse’s original owners.
Ramsdell does not plan to sell the finds but keeps them to learn more about the history of the house.
The discovery is ongoing, and she expects to find more as she continues exploring under the barn.
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