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Protests in Ukraine's cities against Zelensky's removal of defence minister

Protests in Ukraine's cities against Zelensky's removal of defence minister

July 16, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Protests have taken place in several cities in Ukraine after President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who was popular for his reforms and focus on modern technology in the military. The dismissal has caused concern among soldiers, officials, and citizens, while a vote on Fedorov's proposed replacement, Ihor Klymenko, is scheduled.

Key Facts

  • Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov was dismissed unexpectedly by President Zelensky.
  • Fedorov was known for fighting corruption and introducing new technology like drones and cyber tools to Ukraine's military.
  • Protests against the dismissal occurred mainly among young people in Kyiv and other cities.
  • Fedorov had previously started a volunteer "IT Army of Ukraine" to carry out cyber-attacks against Russia.
  • Ihor Klymenko, head of the interior ministry, is the proposed new defence minister.
  • Some link Fedorov's removal to conflicts with military leadership or dissatisfaction with military recruitment reforms.
  • A high-ranking drone commander resigned in protest over Fedorov’s sacking.
  • Fedorov said he will keep working to help Ukraine defeat its enemy using innovation and speed.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
Toronto suffocates as wildfire smoke chokes city

Toronto suffocates as wildfire smoke chokes city

July 16, 2026 • France24

Summary

More than 100 wildfires are burning in northern Ontario, Canada, causing heavy smoke to reach Toronto. The smoke has made the air in Toronto very unhealthy, forcing city officials to tell people to stay inside.

Key Facts

  • Over 100 active wildfires are burning in northern Ontario.
  • Smoke from these fires has spread to Toronto, Canada's largest city.
  • Toronto’s air quality became the worst in the world on July 15.
  • The smoke caused allergic reactions for many people in Toronto.
  • Authorities have advised residents to stay indoors for safety.
  • The wildfires continue to burn as of mid-July 2026.
  • The air pollution is directly linked to the wildfire smoke.
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France24
Ukrainians protest over Zelenskyy's move to oust popular defense chief

Ukrainians protest over Zelenskyy's move to oust popular defense chief

July 16, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has moved to remove Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov during a cabinet shakeup, causing protests in Kyiv. The reshuffle happens amid Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia, with some officials resigning in protest and concerns about political tensions within the government.

Key Facts

  • President Zelenskyy is dismissing Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov as part of a government reshuffle.
  • Hundreds protested in Kyiv against the decision to remove Fedorov.
  • Fedorov is credited with improving Ukraine’s military performance using technology and drone development.
  • The deputy commander of the Ukrainian Air Force and some lawmakers resigned in protest.
  • Fedorov was previously head of Ukraine’s digital transformation and made ties with the Trump administration.
  • Some officials see Fedorov as a possible political rival to Zelenskyy.
  • There are reports of friction between Fedorov and top Ukrainian generals.
  • Zelenskyy nominated Naftogaz CEO Serhii Koretskyi as Ukraine’s new prime minister.
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CBS News
Venezuelans dig to find their loved ones

Venezuelans dig to find their loved ones

July 16, 2026 • France24

Summary

Two strong earthquakes hit the Venezuelan state of La Guaira on June 24, causing many buildings to collapse and leaving tens of thousands of people missing. Because help has not arrived yet, local residents are digging through the rubble with their hands to find loved ones.

Key Facts

  • Two earthquakes occurred seconds apart on June 24 in Venezuela.
  • La Guaira, a state on the Caribbean coast, was the hardest hit area.
  • Entire buildings collapsed very quickly due to the quakes.
  • Tens of thousands of people are still unaccounted for after the disaster.
  • Official rescue and aid have not yet reached the affected areas.
  • Residents, calling themselves "the moles," are digging by hand through rubble to search for survivors.
  • The death toll from the earthquakes has surpassed 4,300.
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France24
Why does the US want to ‘dismantle’ the international criminal court? | Kenneth Roth

Why does the US want to ‘dismantle’ the international criminal court? | Kenneth Roth

July 16, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

The Trump administration opposes the International Criminal Court (ICC), claiming it threatens U.S. sovereignty. Officials argue that the ICC could unfairly prosecute American agents, but the court only handles crimes on member countries’ soil and does not have authority over the U.S. The administration’s true concern is preventing prosecution for war crimes committed abroad.

Key Facts

  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio pledged to “dismantle” the ICC, calling it a threat to U.S. sovereignty.
  • The ICC prosecutes serious crimes like war crimes and genocide on the territory of its member states.
  • The U.S. is not a member of the ICC, so the court cannot charge Americans for crimes committed on U.S. soil.
  • The ICC law is based on international treaties the U.S. has ratified or included in military rules.
  • Rubio’s claim that U.S. officials could be tried by foreign judges is inaccurate because the ICC’s jurisdiction is limited.
  • The Trump administration selectively uses international law, criticizing it when inconvenient and accepting it when useful.
  • The U.S. previously opposed certain ICC powers but supported its jurisdiction when it charged Russian President Putin for actions in Ukraine.
  • Other countries in Europe are members of the ICC, including many democracies, while abusive regimes often avoid joining.
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Guardian US
Will Ferrell's 'The Hawk' Gives Golf the Personality It's Missing

Will Ferrell's 'The Hawk' Gives Golf the Personality It's Missing

July 16, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The new Netflix show The Hawk stars Will Ferrell as a pro golfer named Lonnie Hawkins who is trying to regain his past fame. The show uses comedy to bring more personality and excitement to golf, a sport often seen as slow and boring.

Key Facts

  • The Hawk is a new comedy series on Netflix about professional golf.
  • Will Ferrell plays Lonnie Hawkins, a golfer trying to return to success after his 2004 peak.
  • The show highlights golf’s challenges and the pressure it creates on players and their families.
  • Lonnie has distinctive traits like a signature drink and flashy outfits to make golf more interesting.
  • Cast members say golf combines tragedy, humor, and complexity that aren't obvious to viewers.
  • The series portrays golf players as having bold, unique personalities rather than being quiet and polite.
  • The show aims to change golf’s image to be more fun and engaging.
  • Fortune Feimster plays Lonnie’s caddy and shares humor about the difficulties of carrying golf equipment.
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Newsweek
Russia's Empire Is Starting to Fall—the "Good Russians" Know It | Opinion

Russia's Empire Is Starting to Fall—the "Good Russians" Know It | Opinion

July 16, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The article argues that Russia is an empire struggling to maintain power and that common beliefs about its strength and future democracy are incorrect. It highlights that Ukraine's military actions have weakened Russia, and diplomatic efforts based on fear of President Donald Trump’s predecessor have not protected civilians.

Key Facts

  • Russia is described as the last European empire controlling many national republics within its federation.
  • Before the war, Russia’s economy was similar in size to Italy’s or Canada’s, countries not seen as global superpowers.
  • Common claims about Russia being "too big to fail" or having a democratic future do not hold up under close examination.
  • Ukraine’s missile attacks have damaged Russian oil refineries and military equipment near Moscow.
  • Fears of humiliating Russia or escalating nuclear conflict shaped Western policies early in the war.
  • Ukraine has shown that Russia’s military power is limited and not invincible.
  • The narrative that Russia will become democratic and reintegrate into the global community is considered unrealistic.
  • Efforts to inform ordinary Russians about the war have not resulted in mass opposition to the current government.
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Newsweek
Why Italy’s Genoa bridge collapse led to one of its biggest criminal trials

Why Italy’s Genoa bridge collapse led to one of its biggest criminal trials

July 16, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The Morandi bridge in Genoa, Italy, collapsed in August 2018, killing 43 people and drawing attention to Italy’s aging infrastructure. A major criminal trial is now concluding, with judges set to deliver a verdict on whether neglect and poor maintenance caused the disaster.

Key Facts

  • The Morandi bridge collapsed on August 14, 2018, during heavy rain.
  • The collapse killed 43 people from Italy and other countries.
  • The bridge was built in 1967 and reinforced in the 1990s but showed signs of deterioration by 2000.
  • Investigations found that corroded cables holding up the bridge’s ninth pillar caused it to fail.
  • Prosecutors say poor maintenance and ignoring repairs contributed to the collapse.
  • Defense lawyers argue a hidden design flaw caused the failure, which could not have been prevented.
  • The bridge carried far more daily traffic than it was designed for, between 50,000 and 60,000 vehicles.
  • The trial is one of Italy’s largest criminal cases related to a public infrastructure disaster.
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Al Jazeera
Protests erupt in Ukraine as Zelensky removes defence minister, 'his most popular'

Protests erupt in Ukraine as Zelensky removes defence minister, 'his most popular'

July 16, 2026 • France24

Summary

Large protests took place in several Ukrainian cities on July 16 after President Volodymyr Zelensky removed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. Fedorov was appointed six months ago and was seen as a popular figure who worked to modernize Ukraine's military during the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Key Facts

  • Protests erupted in multiple Ukrainian cities on July 16, 2026.
  • President Zelensky removed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov from his position.
  • Fedorov had been Defence Minister for only six months.
  • He gained popularity for efforts to reform and modernize the Ukrainian military.
  • Ukraine has been engaged in conflict with Russia for over four years.
  • The military is under strain due to the ongoing invasion by Russia.
  • Fedorov was considered a key figure in Ukraine’s defense leadership.
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France24
Eleven people die in fire at Algerian foster care home

Eleven people die in fire at Algerian foster care home

July 16, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

A fire at a foster care home in Algiers, Algeria, killed eleven people and injured nineteen others. Firefighters were still working to put out the fire early Thursday morning, while some people with special needs were safely evacuated.

Key Facts

  • The fire happened at a foster care facility in Algiers, the capital of Algeria.
  • Eleven people died in the fire, and nineteen were injured.
  • Firefighters were still trying to extinguish the fire early on Thursday.
  • Five people with special needs were moved to a safe place during the fire.
  • Algeria has been experiencing a heatwave and about 1,000 fires in the last week.
  • Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb visited two hospitals to see those injured in the fire.
  • The ages of the victims were not released by officials.
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BBC World
Ukraine targets Moscow with 200 drones in large-scale attack, mayor says

Ukraine targets Moscow with 200 drones in large-scale attack, mayor says

July 16, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

Ukraine launched a large drone attack targeting Moscow, with at least 200 drones sent overnight as part of its ongoing strikes deep inside Russia. Russian officials said many drones were intercepted across multiple regions, including Moscow, while Ukraine aims to hit military and infrastructure sites within Russia.

Key Facts

  • Over 200 Ukrainian drones were launched toward Moscow in one night.
  • Moscow’s mayor reported that most drones were neutralized by air defenses, with 10 destroyed near the city.
  • Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed to have shot down at least 375 drones over 18 regions, including Crimea and the Black Sea.
  • In the past week, more than 1,200 Ukrainian drones flew toward Moscow, with around 191 shot down near the city.
  • In 2026 alone, Moscow reports show over 1,400 Ukrainian drones were intercepted, compared to 734 in all of 2025.
  • Ukraine targets include Russian cities, oil infrastructure, and military sites as part of its “long-range sanctions” campaign.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy stated that attacking Russian territory is a response to Russia’s ongoing war and strikes on Ukraine.
  • Engels-2 airbase in Saratov, a key Russian military hub, was also targeted in recent Ukrainian drone attacks.
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ABC News
Canada Wildfires: Map Shows Air Quality Alerts as Haze Engulfs New York

Canada Wildfires: Map Shows Air Quality Alerts as Haze Engulfs New York

July 16, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Smoke from over 800 wildfires burning in Canada is spreading into the United States, causing poor air quality and haze in many states. New York and several other states have issued health alerts, warning people to take precautions to protect themselves from the harmful effects of the smoke.

Key Facts

  • Wildfires in Canada are producing smoke that has moved into the U.S., affecting air quality.
  • New York State issued air quality health advisories covering most of the state, including New York City.
  • Officials in New York are recommending people stay indoors, use air conditioning, wear masks, and avoid outdoor activities.
  • The air pollution includes fine particles that can harm children, older adults, and people with heart or lung problems.
  • Other states affected include Minnesota, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.
  • Some areas, like parts of Minnesota, have air quality considered hazardous due to the smoke.
  • Pennsylvania has issued Code Red alerts, indicating very poor air quality.
  • The smoke is expected to continue impacting air quality across the Northeast and Midwest for several days.
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Newsweek
US releases video of strikes on Iran

US releases video of strikes on Iran

July 16, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The US military shared video of air strikes in Iran targeting coastal defense systems and missile sites near the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian media said explosions happened in Qeshm Island, Bandar Abbas, and Chabahar.

Key Facts

  • The US carried out strikes across Iran on a Wednesday.
  • Targets included coastal defense systems and missile infrastructure.
  • The strikes focused near the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route.
  • Iranian news reported explosions in three places: Qeshm Island, Bandar Abbas, and Chabahar.
  • The US military released video footage of the strikes.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is important for global oil transport.
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Al Jazeera
US strikes Iran, tanker, as Tehran hits Kuwait, Jordan: What’s the latest

US strikes Iran, tanker, as Tehran hits Kuwait, Jordan: What’s the latest

July 16, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The US military carried out air strikes on several locations in Iran, including near Tehran, targeting military sites to reduce Iran’s threat in the Strait of Hormuz. In response, Iran launched attacks on US military assets in Kuwait, Bahrain, and other nearby countries, escalating tensions in the region.

Key Facts

  • The US carried out strikes on Iranian military sites, including command centers, air defenses, missile and drone facilities, and coastal surveillance.
  • The US targeted Bandar Abbas, Greater Tunb Island, and other locations close to the Strait of Hormuz.
  • An oil tanker trying to reach Iran’s Kharg Island was disabled by the US Navy as part of a naval blockade.
  • Iran retaliated by striking US military bases in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan with missiles and drones.
  • Jordan intercepted eight Iranian missiles, and Iraq reported drone attacks near US facilities in Erbil.
  • A hospital in Ahvaz, Iran, was evacuated after being hit during the US strikes.
  • Iranian officials warned of a larger military conflict and threatened to stop all energy exports from the Middle East in response to the US blockade.
  • At least 35 people have died, and over 300 were injured in the recent wave of attacks that started the previous Wednesday.
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Al Jazeera
Greece pins hopes on heat-seeking satellites to predict wildfires

Greece pins hopes on heat-seeking satellites to predict wildfires

July 16, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Greece has started using four small satellites with thermal imaging to help predict and fight wildfires. These satellites monitor temperature, humidity, and terrain to detect fires early, track their spread, and guide firefighting efforts more precisely.

Key Facts

  • The Hellenic Space Center in Athens operates four satellites orbiting 550 km above Earth.
  • These satellites are Greece’s first with thermal imaging, which can see heat through smoke to locate fires.
  • The satellites help predict where wildfires may start within hours by monitoring ground temperature and humidity.
  • They provide maps of vegetation and elevation to show how fires might spread.
  • Satellites send real-time images about fire fronts even at night, aiding early firefighting actions.
  • Greece plans to launch seven more satellites with multi-spectral sensors to monitor forest health and detect fires.
  • Greece faces about 10,000 forest and field fires annually, requiring advanced technology for faster response.
  • Older methods relied on patrols and lookout posts, which are slower and less efficient than satellite monitoring.
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Al Jazeera
US launches new attacks on Iran as Tehran targets Gulf sites

US launches new attacks on Iran as Tehran targets Gulf sites

July 16, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The United States military has launched new strikes on Iran targeting military and coastal sites to limit Iran's ability to disrupt shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran responded by attacking US military bases in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan with missiles and drones, leading to a rising cycle of retaliation between the two countries.

Key Facts

  • The US conducted strikes against Iranian command centers, air defenses, missile and drone sites, and coastal surveillance facilities.
  • Targets included Bandar Abbas, a key naval port near the Strait of Hormuz, and Greater Tunb island.
  • Iran reported explosions and activated its air defenses across multiple cities, including Tehran and southern coastal areas.
  • Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps shot down a US MQ-9 drone over Khuzestan province.
  • Iran claims it attacked US bases in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan, focusing on missile batteries, radar, and fuel tanks.
  • Kuwait intercepted 4 cruise missiles and 21 drones launched by Iran.
  • Jordan intercepted 8 Iranian missiles and rejected claims of US base damage.
  • This conflict escalates despite a recent ceasefire agreement and plans for negotiations between the US and Iran.
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Al Jazeera
‘Escaping Beijing’: Why some young Chinese are quitting the capital

‘Escaping Beijing’: Why some young Chinese are quitting the capital

July 16, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Many young people in Beijing are choosing to leave the city because life has become too expensive and stressful. The slowing economy, housing problems, and tough job market are pushing them to seek better opportunities and a higher quality of life elsewhere.

Key Facts

  • Beijing’s population grew from 11 million in 1990 to nearly 22 million today, attracting many migrants seeking success.
  • China’s rapid economic growth has slowed, affected by real estate troubles and the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Property prices dropped, causing financial losses for families who invested heavily in housing.
  • The pandemic led people to save more and spend less, shrinking business opportunities and jobs.
  • Wang Lei, a 29-year-old who moved to Beijing in 2020, left his real estate job due to market problems and now freelances while co-owning a small bar.
  • Young people on social media use the hashtag “escaping Beijing” to discuss leaving due to high costs, competition, and uncertain career futures.
  • A work culture known as “996”—working 9 am to 9 pm six days a week—has become less popular among younger generations.
  • Leaving Beijing used to be seen as failure, but attitudes are changing as many seek better life balance and lower living costs outside the city.
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Al Jazeera
Fire at orphanage in Algeria kills 11 and wounds 19

Fire at orphanage in Algeria kills 11 and wounds 19

July 16, 2026 • France24

Summary

A fire broke out at an orphanage near Algiers, Algeria, killing at least 11 people and injuring 19 others. The cause of the fire is unknown, and efforts to control the blaze are ongoing amid a severe heatwave affecting the region.

Key Facts

  • The fire occurred in an orphanage located in the Mohammadia district, a suburb of Algiers.
  • At least 11 people died, and 19 were injured due to the fire.
  • The country’s civil defence is still working to extinguish the fire.
  • Authorities have not yet determined what started the fire.
  • Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb visited the injured at the hospital.
  • Algeria is experiencing a heatwave with temperatures causing nearly 1,000 fires in one week.
  • The photo in the article shows firefighters battling a previous fire in Algeria.
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France24
Keir Starmer arrives in Kyiv for farewell visit as British PM – Europe live

Keir Starmer arrives in Kyiv for farewell visit as British PM – Europe live

July 16, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has fired Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov just before British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's visit to Kyiv. This decision has caused protests with over 1,000 people opposing the move, saying Fedorov was popular and seen as a symbol of openness and progress.

Key Facts

  • Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine’s Defence Minister, was dismissed by President Zelenskyy.
  • Over 1,000 people protested in Kyiv against Fedorov’s removal.
  • Protesters say Fedorov represents innovation, transparency, and has been successful in his role.
  • There are allegations of conflict between Fedorov and Ukraine’s military commander Oleksandr Syrskyi, linked with accusations of corruption.
  • Fedorov is 35 years old and many see him as a potential future leader in Ukraine.
  • Fedorov helped improve Ukraine's military capabilities, including the use of drones against Russian targets and improving procurement to save money.
  • He announced successful testing of a new ballistic missile with better accuracy and lower cost.
  • The firing of Fedorov has caused political tension just as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer visits Kyiv.
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Guardian World
Protests against removal of popular defence minister erupt across Ukraine

Protests against removal of popular defence minister erupt across Ukraine

July 16, 2026 • France24

Summary

Large protests broke out across Ukraine after President Volodymyr Zelensky removed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. Fedorov, known for modernizing Ukraine’s military during the war with Russia, resigned amid the changes, causing concerns about military stability.

Key Facts

  • Mykhailo Fedorov was Ukraine’s Defence Minister for six months before being removed.
  • Protests occurred in Kyiv, Lviv, Odesa, Dnipro, and other cities demanding his reinstatement.
  • Protesters sang the national anthem and waved Ukrainian and EU flags.
  • Fedorov helped reform the military during the ongoing Russian invasion.
  • No official reason was given for his removal as part of a government reshuffle by President Zelensky.
  • Deputy commander of Ukraine’s air force, Pavlo Yelizarov, resigned in protest.
  • The changes also included the removal of the prime minister, with no replacements named yet.
  • The protests reflect public dissatisfaction and fears of instability during a critical time in the war.
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France24