The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

UK urges FIFA to investigate Argentina over World Cup Falklands banner

UK urges FIFA to investigate Argentina over World Cup Falklands banner

Summary

A British minister has asked FIFA to investigate after Argentina’s World Cup players displayed a banner saying "The Falklands are Argentinian" during their match against England. The UK government says political messages are not allowed in football and wants FIFA to look into the matter.

Key Facts

  • Argentina’s players showed a banner claiming the Falkland Islands belong to Argentina after beating England 2-1 in the World Cup semifinal.
  • British Business Minister Peter Kyle called this a serious break of FIFA’s rules, which ban political messages at games.
  • The UK prime minister’s office supported the call for an investigation by FIFA.
  • The Falklands conflict happened in 1982 when Argentina invaded the islands and the UK took back control after a brief war.
  • Argentina still claims the islands, which the UK governs as a British overseas territory.
  • Argentina’s Vice President called the English "usurping pirates" before the match, raising tensions.
  • Argentina’s foreign minister said Buenos Aires filed a formal protest over a British warship near the Falklands, accusing the UK of illegal actions.
  • FIFA has not yet responded to the calls for investigation.
Read the Original

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

Trump Has Lower Global Trust Than Xi—and Biden

Trump Has Lower Global Trust Than Xi—and Biden

Summary

A new Pew Research poll shows that China is viewed more favorably than the United States in 27 out of 36 countries surveyed. President Donald Trump’s global trust rating is lower than both Chinese leader Xi Jinping and President Joe Biden.

Key Facts

  • The survey covered 36 countries and over 42,000 people from February to May 2026.
  • China is preferred to the U.S. by major U.S. allies like Germany, Turkey, and Sweden.
  • Mexico and Canada favor China over the United States, by 59% to 40% and 44% to 33%, respectively.
  • Only six countries strongly favor the United States: Japan, South Korea, India, the Philippines, Israel, and Poland.
  • Confidence that President Trump will "do the right thing regarding world affairs" dropped from 31% to 21%.
  • Confidence in Xi Jinping rose from 25% to 31%.
  • Trump’s favorability rating is 16 percentage points below President Biden’s lowest rating from 2024.
  • The poll reflects shifting global opinions with declining views on the U.S. and improved views on China.
Read the Original

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

Ebola 'spreading faster than any previous outbreak' in DR Congo, WHO warns

Ebola 'spreading faster than any previous outbreak' in DR Congo, WHO warns

Summary

The World Health Organization (WHO) says the Ebola virus is spreading faster in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) than in any previous outbreak. In just two months, there have been over 2,000 confirmed cases and 796 deaths, with the virus present in several provinces and neighboring Uganda.

Key Facts

  • The current Ebola outbreak in DRC began on May 15, 2026.
  • More than 2,000 Ebola cases and 796 deaths have been confirmed.
  • This is the third-largest Ebola outbreak ever recorded.
  • The outbreak spread to five provinces in DRC and to Uganda.
  • The virus strain causing this outbreak is Bundibugyo, which has no approved vaccine or treatment.
  • The outbreak is occurring in an area with active armed conflict, complicating response efforts.
  • Over 80% of new cases are found outside known contact lists, meaning many infections are not traced.
  • About two-thirds of deaths occur in communities among people who did not receive medical care in health facilities.
Read the Original

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

‘We are waiting with bated breath’: Super El Niño forecast could make 2027 hottest year on record, BoM says

‘We are waiting with bated breath’: Super El Niño forecast could make 2027 hottest year on record, BoM says

Summary

Scientists say the El Niño weather pattern in the Pacific Ocean could become the strongest ever recorded. This event may cause very hot and dry weather in parts of the world and could help make 2027 the hottest year on record.

Key Facts

  • El Niño is a natural climate pattern where ocean temperatures in the Pacific rise above normal.
  • Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology says this El Niño could be the strongest ever seen.
  • The peak temperature in the Niño 3.4 region might reach over +3°C, higher than the previous record of +2.6°C in 1983.
  • A strong El Niño usually causes hotter, drier weather in southern and eastern Australia during winter and spring.
  • Globally, El Niño can cause severe storms in some areas and droughts in others.
  • Experts warn this event could help make 2027 the hottest year worldwide.
  • Many Australian cities like Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne have a high chance of extreme heat and low rainfall from August to October 2026.
  • Scientists link the stronger El Niño to rising ocean heat caused by climate change.
Read the Original

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

Bab al-Mandeb: The Next Strait Iran Is Threatening to Shut Down

Bab al-Mandeb: The Next Strait Iran Is Threatening to Shut Down

Summary

President Donald Trump has threatened military strikes on Iranian infrastructure, which may lead Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen to block the Bab al-Mandeb strait, a key shipping route near the Red Sea. Closing this strait, along with the already closed Strait of Hormuz, could seriously disrupt global oil shipments and raise energy prices.

Key Facts

  • President Trump warned he might strike Iranian power plants and bridges to pressure Iran in negotiations.
  • Iran’s allied Houthi militants in Yemen are prepared to attack ships in the Bab al-Mandeb strait using missiles and drones.
  • The Bab al-Mandeb strait is a strategic waterway connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean.
  • Closing this strait would block a major oil export route, adding to the disruption caused by the closed Strait of Hormuz.
  • The Houthis recently resumed missile attacks on Saudi Arabia after a truce ended following Saudi strikes in Yemen.
  • The U.S. recently launched strikes on Iranian military sites aimed at reducing threats to ships passing through these waterways.
  • Saudi Arabia has rerouted much of its oil exports through the Red Sea port of Yanbu, making the area critical for oil markets.
  • Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in Yemen controls the decision to close the Bab al-Mandeb strait.
Read the Original

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

Target of Monaco bomb blames attack on Ukrainian spy agency

Target of Monaco bomb blames attack on Ukrainian spy agency

Summary

A Ukrainian businessman, Vadym Iermolaiev, who survived a bombing attack in Monaco, has accused Ukraine’s military intelligence agency, known as GUR, of organizing the attempt on his life. French investigators identified the bomber and Ukrainian authorities have arrested suspects, including a GUR officer, in connection with the incident and a related murder.

Key Facts

  • Vadym Iermolaiev survived a bomb attack in Monaco that injured him and critically wounded his partner.
  • Iermolaiev publicly accused serving and former officers of Ukraine’s GUR military intelligence agency of planning the attack.
  • The bomber was identified as Anastasiia Berezovska, a Ukrainian national, who died near Kyiv days after the bombing.
  • Two suspects, Vladyslav Reut (a GUR officer) and Oleksandr Zhykovych (former law enforcement), were arrested in connection with Berezovska’s death.
  • Ukrainian prosecutors claim the bombing was the act of a rogue intelligence officer acting without agency approval.
  • Iermolaiev disputes this, saying evidence points to a wider conspiracy within GUR, including its leadership.
  • The attack severely injured Iermolaiev’s family, with his partner suffering catastrophic injuries and their child seriously harmed.
  • The case creates political challenges for Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy and may affect Ukraine’s relations with European countries.
Read the Original

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

Canada's air ranks as worst in the world due to wildfire smoke

Canada's air ranks as worst in the world due to wildfire smoke

Summary

Canada is facing very bad air quality because of smoke from over 800 active wildfires, with more than 100 of them out of control. The smoke is causing health warnings in cities like Toronto and may spread to the northeastern United States, potentially affecting events such as the World Cup final in New Jersey.

Key Facts

  • Canada currently has 835 active wildfires.
  • Among these, 112 wildfires are considered out of control.
  • Smoke from the wildfires has made the air quality hazardous, especially in Toronto.
  • Toronto residents have been advised to stay indoors if possible.
  • U.S. officials worry that the smoke could reach the northeastern U.S.
  • The smoke might impact the World Cup final scheduled in New Jersey.
  • Wildfires and their smoke are a major cause of pollution and health risks in the region.
  • The situation is ongoing as wildfires continue to burn across Canada.
Read the Original

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

China bans AI chatbot relationships to combat declining birth rate

China bans AI chatbot relationships to combat declining birth rate

Summary

China is introducing rules to stop people from forming relationships with AI chatbots. Officials are worried that these AI relationships could cause addiction, mental health problems, and contribute to fewer babies being born.

Key Facts

  • China is banning romantic or close relationships with AI chatbots.
  • This move is to address China’s declining birthrate.
  • Officials are concerned about addictive behavior linked to AI chatbots.
  • Psychological harm from AI relationships is also a factor in the ban.
  • The declining population is a major reason behind the government’s new rules.
  • Matt Sheehan, a senior fellow at Carnegie Endowment, explains these motivations.
  • The ban is part of China’s broader effort to manage social and demographic issues.
Read the Original

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

Watch: What we know about newly discovered monkey species

Watch: What we know about newly discovered monkey species

Summary

Scientists have confirmed a new monkey species living in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The monkey, with pinkish-orange lips and a black face, was first seen in 2008 but only studied deeply after another sighting 10 years later.

Key Facts

  • The new monkey species lives in Lomami National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
  • It has pinkish-orange lips and a black face.
  • The monkey lives high up in dense tropical forest trees.
  • Conservationists first noticed the monkey in 2008.
  • A detailed study began after a second sighting in 2018.
  • An international team of scientists was involved in confirming the species.
  • Dr. Karen Laurenson from the Frankfurt Zoological Society highlighted the importance of this discovery.
  • The find shows there is still much to learn about wildlife in natural habitats.
Read the Original

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

As the war rekindles, what options are left to the US and Iran?

As the war rekindles, what options are left to the US and Iran?

Summary

The United States and Iran have resumed military attacks against each other, focusing on control of the Strait of Hormuz. This conflict follows a recent preliminary deal meant to stop fighting, but attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain show tensions remain high.

Key Facts

  • The US and Iran have restarted attacks in a conflict over control of the Strait of Hormuz.
  • A preliminary peace deal was signed about a month ago but has not stopped the violence.
  • Iran has carried out air attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain.
  • Iran claims it is targeting US military bases in the Gulf region.
  • The conflict involves exchanges of strikes between US and Iranian forces.
  • President Donald Trump has warned of more strikes targeting Iranian infrastructure like bridges and power plants.
  • The US has reinstated a naval blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route.
  • The situation raises questions about how long the conflict can continue without escalation or resolution.
Read the Original

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

Data breach reportedly targets India’s Kudankulam nuclear power plant

Data breach reportedly targets India’s Kudankulam nuclear power plant

Summary

A ransomware group called World Leaks posted thousands of files linked to India’s Kudankulam nuclear power plant on the dark web. The Nuclear Power Corporation of India said no sensitive nuclear security information was exposed, and Indian authorities are investigating the breach.

Key Facts

  • World Leaks shared about 19,000 files related to the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant online since June 11.
  • The files included blueprints, supplier details, meeting records, equipment reviews, and insurance policies.
  • Reliance Group, a contractor for the plant, confirmed a partial data breach on a server hosted by a third-party provider.
  • Kudankulam is India’s largest nuclear power plant and is key to expanding the country’s atomic energy.
  • The leaked files date from 2016 to mid-2025 but their authenticity could not be confirmed by Reuters.
  • The Nuclear Power Corporation of India stated the exposed information did not involve nuclear safety or security systems.
  • India’s main cybersecurity agency, CERT-In, is investigating the breach.
  • World Leaks is known for demanding ransom payments and posting stolen corporate data when demands are not met.
Read the Original

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

Genoa bridge collapse trial highlights Italy's ageing infrastructure issue

Genoa bridge collapse trial highlights Italy's ageing infrastructure issue

Summary

An Italian court sentenced 32 people for their roles in the 2018 Genoa bridge collapse that killed 43 people. Giovanni Castellucci, former CEO of the company managing the bridge, was found guilty of vehicular homicide and negligence and sentenced to 12 years in prison.

Key Facts

  • The collapse happened eight years ago in Genoa, Italy.
  • 43 people died in the disaster.
  • 32 defendants were tried and found guilty.
  • Giovanni Castellucci, former CEO of Autostrade, received a 12-year prison sentence.
  • Castellucci was convicted of vehicular homicide and negligence.
  • The trial also included the former head of Spea, the engineering company responsible for renovations.
  • Officials from Italy’s infrastructure ministry were also on trial.
  • The case highlighted issues with Italy’s aging infrastructure.
Read the Original

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

Has Bali’s Melukat ritual turned into a commodified religious ceremony?

Has Bali’s Melukat ritual turned into a commodified religious ceremony?

Summary

Many travelers visiting Bali are taking part in Melukat, an old Balinese ceremony meant for spiritual cleansing and healing. There are concerns that the ceremony’s cultural and spiritual meaning might be affected by the growing number of tourists.

Key Facts

  • Melukat is an ancient spiritual ceremony in Bali meant for cleansing and healing.
  • Hundreds of tourists participate in Melukat daily during the holiday season.
  • Bali is a popular travel destination known for its cultural traditions.
  • The rise in tourists has raised concerns about changing the true meaning of the ceremony.
  • The article explores tensions between tourism and preserving cultural heritage.
Read the Original

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

Ukraine: Protests erupt after defence minister sacked

Ukraine: Protests erupt after defence minister sacked

Summary

Protests have started in several Ukrainian cities after the country's defence minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, was fired by President Volodymyr Zelensky. Fedorov was popular and seen as a reformer but was removed after only six months in the position, possibly due to conflicts within the military.

Key Facts

  • Mykhailo Fedorov was Ukraine’s defence minister for six months before being dismissed.
  • President Volodymyr Zelensky removed Fedorov from the role.
  • Fedorov was considered a moderniser of Ukraine’s defence ministry.
  • Protests broke out in multiple cities in Ukraine following his dismissal.
  • Demonstrators shouted slogans like “Shame!” and “Power to the people!”
  • The dismissal may be linked to internal disagreements in the Ukrainian military.
  • Such protests are rare in Ukraine, showing strong public reaction.
  • The situation highlights tensions inside Ukraine’s defence leadership during an ongoing conflict.
Read the Original

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

Vance: Israeli government members ‘hate’ Iran deal

Vance: Israeli government members ‘hate’ Iran deal

Summary

Vice President Vance said that some members of the Israeli government strongly dislike the recent U.S.-Iran deal based on a 14-point agreement signed last month. He also mentioned that there is discussion about Israel's role in influencing U.S. politics.

Key Facts

  • Vice President Vance spoke on Wednesday about the U.S.-Iran deal.
  • The deal is based on a 14-point memorandum of understanding signed last month.
  • Some people in the Israeli government dislike the deal.
  • There is talk about Israel's influence on American politics.
  • The statement highlights differing views within the Israeli government regarding the agreement with Iran.
Read the Original

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

Burnham too influenced by ‘vested interests’ to offer change, Polanski says

Burnham too influenced by ‘vested interests’ to offer change, Polanski says

Summary

Zack Polanski, leader of the Green Party in England and Wales, criticized Andy Burnham, the incoming UK prime minister, for being influenced by powerful interests and not offering real change on issues like wealth taxes, Gaza, rent controls, and climate action. The Greens are planning a media campaign to highlight areas where they believe Burnham is weak or cautious compared to their stronger policy proposals.

Key Facts

  • Zack Polanski said Andy Burnham is “too in hock to vested interests” to deliver real change.
  • The Green Party’s membership has more than tripled under Polanski’s leadership.
  • The Greens are gaining support from former Labour voters unhappy with Labour leader Keir Starmer.
  • Burnham reportedly chose Shabana Mahmood over Ed Miliband as chancellor, seen by Greens as a sign of being influenced by the financial sector.
  • Greens want rent controls, while Burnham has supported the idea but not committed to it as prime minister.
  • Greens propose a separate wealth tax supported by 81% of Labour voters, while Burnham may only adjust capital gains tax thresholds.
  • Polanski contrasted Greens’ call to ban UK arms exports to Israel with Burnham’s apology for Labour’s early response to Gaza.
  • The Greens accuse Burnham of not taking strong enough action on climate change, noting he is open to further North Sea fossil fuel drilling.
Read the Original

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

Ali Zalzali’s shows gothic glamour in his début couture collection

Ali Zalzali’s shows gothic glamour in his début couture collection

Summary

Fashion designer Ali Zalzali presented his first couture collection called "Natura Morta," inspired by nature and life cycles. He also created a short film to show the feeling behind his handmade pieces, which mix classic and modern styles and reflect his personal background.

Key Facts

  • Ali Zalzali launched his debut couture collection named "Natura Morta."
  • The collection features flowing, botanical shapes inspired by the cycles of plants and human life.
  • Zalzali made a short film to express the atmosphere of his handmade fashion pieces.
  • His designs blend contemporary and classical art influences.
  • Zalzali’s background includes growing up in Lebanon, studying in Italy, and starting his fashion label in Paris.
  • The article discusses how haute couture (high-end custom fashion) can be surprisingly sustainable.
  • The coverage mentions the combination of technology and human creativity in art.
  • The piece is part of a broader cultural discussion including other artists and fashion events.
Read the Original

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

From the archives: Pat Oliphant and the art of political cartoons

From the archives: Pat Oliphant and the art of political cartoons

Summary

Pat Oliphant, a famous cartoonist known for his sharp political drawings, died on July 13, 2026, at age 90. He was recognized worldwide and won a Pulitzer Prize. In a 2000 interview, Oliphant discussed the history and impact of political cartoons.

Key Facts

  • Pat Oliphant was a Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist.
  • His cartoons appeared in up to 500 publications globally.
  • Oliphant died on July 13, 2026, at the age of 90.
  • He created sharp, critical drawings of political figures.
  • In a 2000 CBS News interview, he spoke about caricature and censorship.
  • He referenced Honoré Daumier, a 19th-century French cartoonist whose work influenced press freedom.
  • Daumier’s cartoons of King Louis Philippe led to reduced press freedom in France in 1835.
Read the Original

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

Meteorite that hit home contains "alien world chemistry," experts say

Meteorite that hit home contains "alien world chemistry," experts say

Summary

A meteorite that crashed into a New Jersey home in July 2024 contained rare materials and molecules linked to the origins of life. Scientists found that the meteorite had salty brine and organic compounds, suggesting that such space rocks may have delivered important chemicals to early Earth.

Key Facts

  • The meteorite landed in a New Jersey home in July 2024.
  • The homeowner preserved the fragments carefully, allowing detailed study.
  • The meteorite is a rare type called CM1/2 carbonaceous chondrite.
  • This is only the second time scientists have observed a fall of this meteorite type.
  • Scientists found evidence of salty liquid (brine) on the parent asteroid before the meteorite broke off.
  • The brine contained high salt levels that can help create molecules important for life.
  • The meteorite held organic materials like amino acids and magnesium organic compounds used in living things.
  • Some fragments will be kept at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City for future research.
Read the Original

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

Senior defense officials considering military action against Cuba

Senior defense officials considering military action against Cuba

Summary

The U.S. Pentagon is making plans for a possible military action against Cuba. Senior defense officials are reviewing their options as part of these preparations.

Key Facts

  • The Pentagon is creating plans that could lead to military action in Cuba.
  • Senior U.S. defense officials are involved in considering the military options.
  • These plans suggest growing concern about events or threats related to Cuba.
  • The information comes from U.S. government sources.
  • No official decision has been announced yet regarding military action.
  • The situation is under active review and monitoring by U.S. defense leaders.
Read the Original

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