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Venezuela’s Rodriguez blames ‘propaganda’ for quake response backlash

Venezuela’s Rodriguez blames ‘propaganda’ for quake response backlash

Summary

Venezuela’s acting president Delcy Rodriguez said the government responded quickly and had the right equipment after the earthquake. Some residents said they did not receive help for the first two days.

Key Facts

  • Delcy Rodriguez is Venezuela’s acting president.
  • Her 180-day term as acting president ends this Friday.
  • She said rescue teams were sent out quickly after the earthquake.
  • She also said the teams had enough equipment.
  • Some local people said they did not get government help for 48 hours after the earthquake.
  • Rodriguez called the criticism against the government’s response “propaganda.”
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Thousands forced to evacuate in Colorado as wildfire spreads

Thousands forced to evacuate in Colorado as wildfire spreads

Summary

A large wildfire called the Aspen Acres Fire is spreading quickly in southern Colorado, forcing about 2,200 people to evacuate their homes. The fire has destroyed over 160 buildings and is one of many wildfires burning across the western United States, driven by dry weather and strong winds.

Key Facts

  • The Aspen Acres Fire grew by 44 square kilometers overnight, reaching 272 square kilometers in size.
  • About 2,200 people were ordered to leave Colorado City, Beulah, Rye, and San Isabel.
  • Smoke from the fire has reduced visibility on Interstate 25 to less than a mile in some areas.
  • The Colorado National Guard deployed around 50 soldiers to help with road checkpoints and protect water sources.
  • Investigators say the fire was caused by humans, but no further details have been shared.
  • Other nearby wildfires include the Snyder Fire, Cottonwood Fire, and Babylon Fire, all covering large areas.
  • Three firefighters recently died fighting fires in the region, highlighting the dangers.
  • High fire risks have led to cancellations of local Fourth of July fireworks and fire restrictions in many counties.
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Starmer tells of 'intensely personal' decision to quit and warns Burnham in first interview since resigning

Starmer tells of 'intensely personal' decision to quit and warns Burnham in first interview since resigning

Summary

Sir Keir Starmer spoke about his decision to resign as prime minister, calling it a deeply personal choice made with his family. He warned that global challenges will continue and said his likely successor, Andy Burnham, will need to handle both international and domestic issues equally.

Key Facts

  • Sir Keir Starmer decided to resign as prime minister after discussions with family and advisers.
  • He described the decision as "intensely personal" and made it while at Chequers with his wife and children.
  • Starmer said he had saved the Labour Party and had been a successful prime minister.
  • He expects Andy Burnham, likely his successor, to face the same global conflicts and domestic challenges.
  • Starmer said international and domestic issues cannot be separated in leadership responsibilities.
  • He promised to support his successor and not publicly criticize them.
  • Burnham has ruled out calling an early general election if he becomes prime minister.
  • Starmer will remain a Member of Parliament at least until the next election.
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Pope Leo XIV celebrates America’s 250th in Liberty Medal award acceptance speech

Pope Leo XIV celebrates America’s 250th in Liberty Medal award acceptance speech

Summary

Pope Leo XIV spoke about America’s 250th anniversary while accepting the 2026 Liberty Medal on Friday. The Liberty Medal is given by the National Constitution Center to someone who works to promote freedom worldwide.

Key Facts

  • Pope Leo XIV received the 2026 Liberty Medal award.
  • The award honors people who help protect and promote liberty globally.
  • The ceremony took place on a Friday.
  • The National Constitution Center gives out the Liberty Medal.
  • The award is linked to celebrating America's 250th birthday.
  • The pope mentioned his hope for continued freedom in his speech.
  • The National Constitution Center is an organization that promotes constitutional values.
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Guests arrive at MSG for Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce 2nd wedding event

Guests arrive at MSG for Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce 2nd wedding event

Summary

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are reportedly hosting a second wedding event at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Around 1,000 guests, including celebrities and athletes, are expected to attend, with strict no-phone rules and heavy police security in place.

Key Facts

  • The second wedding event is taking place at Madison Square Garden (MSG) on July 3, 2026.
  • About 1,000 people are expected to attend the event, which will last until 4 a.m. the next day.
  • Guests include celebrities like singer Benson Boone, soccer legend Abby Wambach, and NFL players Chris Jones and Cooper Kupp.
  • A smaller gathering of around 100 people was held at MSG the night before.
  • There is a strict no-phone policy for everyone inside the venue during the events.
  • The New York Police Department has set up street closures and limited access to nearby train stations for security reasons.
  • Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce announced their engagement in August 2025.
  • In July 2026, Swift and Kelce publicly donated $26 million to charities in New York City and across the U.S. prior to the events.
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A Belgian diamond group is gifting Trump a lavish ring after that industry won tariff relief

A Belgian diamond group is gifting Trump a lavish ring after that industry won tariff relief

Summary

A Belgian diamond group created a special, jewel-covered gold ring to honor the United States' 250th anniversary. The ring, full of symbols related to America and President Donald Trump, was given to the U.S. ambassador in Belgium to present to President Trump.

Key Facts

  • The ring is decorated with 321 diamonds, 56 sapphires, 13 emeralds, and six rubies.
  • It features two large letter T’s, the American flag, and the years 1776 and 2026.
  • The numbers 45 and 47 appear inside a Superman-style logo on the ring.
  • There is a diamond-winged eagle holding a ruby shield and an olive branch made of emeralds.
  • The ring includes the phrase "250 YEARS USA," engraved in 18-karat gold.
  • The ring was given to Bill White, the U.S. ambassador to Belgium, to deliver to President Donald Trump.
  • President Trump thanked the Antwerp diamond makers in a recorded video during a U.S. 250th birthday celebration in Brussels.
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‘A nightmare’: Strugging with the aftermath of Venezuela’s earthquakes

‘A nightmare’: Strugging with the aftermath of Venezuela’s earthquakes

Summary

Two strong earthquakes hit Venezuela on June 24, killing at least 2,645 people and causing widespread destruction. Rescue teams and volunteers are searching through rubble to find survivors, while many displaced people live in temporary shelters.

Key Facts

  • Two earthquakes with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5 struck Venezuela less than a minute apart.
  • At least 2,645 people have died, and about 38,500 are still missing.
  • The government has ordered 10,000 bags to store bodies, according to the United Nations.
  • Rescue efforts involve international teams and local volunteers using basic tools.
  • The city of La Guaira suffered heavy damage, with many apartment buildings destroyed.
  • Many survivors are living in makeshift tent camps in public parks.
  • Some residents criticize the government for poor housing quality and lack of safety measures.
  • Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodriguez says the government’s response was as fast as possible.
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Interpol names 39-year-old woman as suspect in Monaco apartment bombing

Interpol names 39-year-old woman as suspect in Monaco apartment bombing

Summary

Interpol has identified a 39-year-old Ukrainian woman, Anastasiia Berezovska, as the main suspect in a bombing at an apartment in Monaco. The explosion injured three people, including a Ukrainian tycoon with ties to Russia, and authorities are searching for the suspect who remains on the run.

Key Facts

  • The bombing happened at an apartment building entrance in Monaco and injured three people, including a tycoon named Vadym Yermolaiev.
  • Yermolaiev was reportedly targeted; he renounced Ukrainian citizenship and faced sanctions in 2023 due to connections with Russia.
  • Anastasiia Berezovska is wanted by Interpol on charges of attempted murder, placing an explosive device, and criminal conspiracy.
  • The bomb was detonated remotely, and investigators believe Berezovska did not act alone.
  • The suspect was disguised as a man during the attack and has a distinctive snake tattoo on her right arm.
  • German police searched Berezovska’s apartment near Frankfurt and a vehicle linked to her; she is still at large.
  • The investigation traced the suspect’s movements through multiple European countries, ending in Germany.
  • Monaco’s authorities and prosecutors continue searching for possible accomplices and the motive behind the attack.
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Fans gather in NYC for Taylor Swift's wedding

Fans gather in NYC for Taylor Swift's wedding

Summary

Fans gathered in New York City because singer Taylor Swift could be marrying football player Travis Kelce at Madison Square Garden. This event attracted a lot of attention and excitement.

Key Facts

  • Taylor Swift, a popular singer, might be getting married.
  • The possible wedding is with NFL player Travis Kelce.
  • The location mentioned is Madison Square Garden in New York City.
  • The event is expected to happen on a Friday night.
  • Fans have shown strong interest and gathered in the city.
  • A reporter from Page Six discussed the event on CBS News.
  • The story was covered by CBS News and shared through their app.
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Massive wildfire spreads in Portugal amid extreme heat and strong wind

Massive wildfire spreads in Portugal amid extreme heat and strong wind

Summary

A large wildfire is burning near Vouzela in central Portugal. Strong winds and very hot weather are helping the fire spread over several areas, causing thousands of hectares to burn. People are evacuating their homes while firefighters work hard to control the blaze.

Key Facts

  • The wildfire is located near Vouzela in central Portugal.
  • Strong winds and extreme heat are causing the fire to spread quickly.
  • Several municipalities (local regions) are affected by the fire.
  • Thousands of hectares (large areas of land) have burned.
  • Residents are evacuating to stay safe.
  • Firefighters are increasing efforts to control and stop the fire.
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Anguished families left to identify Venezuela quake victims at makeshift morgue

Anguished families left to identify Venezuela quake victims at makeshift morgue

Summary

After two strong earthquakes struck Venezuela, a port facility in La Guaira has been turned into a temporary morgue where families wait to identify the victims. Over 2,600 people have died, and with many buildings destroyed, officials and families struggle to find and recognize the bodies amid poor conditions.

Key Facts

  • Venezuela experienced two major earthquakes that killed over 2,600 people.
  • A port storage area in La Guaira has been converted into a makeshift morgue.
  • Families have spent days searching hospitals, shelters, and rubble for their loved ones.
  • Many bodies lie outside or in tents due to the damaged infrastructure.
  • Identification is difficult because bodies are swollen, injured, or decomposed.
  • Forensic experts use dental records and other clues like tattoos or clothing to help identify victims.
  • Families watch over 1,000 images of bodies on screens to try to find their relatives.
  • Emotional scenes occur as relatives recognize their family members in difficult conditions.
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U.S.-Iran peace talks on hold during Ali Khamenei's funeral

U.S.-Iran peace talks on hold during Ali Khamenei's funeral

Summary

Peace talks between the United States and Iran are paused while Iran holds funeral services for former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The talks aim to address ongoing conflicts but are temporarily on hold due to the funeral events.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. and Iran were engaged in peace talks.
  • These talks are currently paused.
  • Iran is holding funeral services for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
  • Khamenei was a former Supreme Leader of Iran.
  • The pause is directly linked to the funeral events.
  • The talks are connected to ongoing conflicts involving the two countries.
  • CBS News covered the update with analysis from a national security expert.
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Iran prepares for dayslong funeral for late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Iran prepares for dayslong funeral for late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Summary

Iran is holding a multi-day funeral in Tehran for the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who died after a war involving Israeli and U.S. airstrikes. Millions are expected to attend the funeral, which also honors family members killed in the conflict, highlighting Iran’s political unity and ongoing tensions with other countries.

Key Facts

  • Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, died due to war-related events involving Israeli and U.S. strikes.
  • The funeral is expected to last several days and draw millions of people in Tehran.
  • Khamenei’s family members, including his eldest daughter and grandson, also died in the attacks.
  • Iran's government prepared banners urging public support for the Islamic Republic following the war.
  • A prominent general of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard appeared publicly for the first time in months during funeral preparations.
  • Iranian officials and foreign visitors paid respects at the ceremony held at Tehran’s Grand Mosalla.
  • The funeral includes traditional Shiite mourning rituals and symbols calling for justice and remembrance.
  • Iran continues to face regional tensions and is using the occasion to show strength amid ongoing conflicts.
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Madonna's New Album Features a Song With Her Daughter, Lola Leon

Madonna's New Album Features a Song With Her Daughter, Lola Leon

Summary

Madonna released a new album called "Confessions II" on July 3. The album includes a song co-written with her daughter, Lola Leon, and reflects on themes like love, healing, and loss.

Key Facts

  • The album "Confessions II" came out on July 3 through Warner Records.
  • Madonna worked again with producer Stuart Price, who produced her earlier album "Confessions on a Dance Floor."
  • The album focuses on themes such as love, trauma, loss, and healing.
  • It has a song called "The Test," co-written and performed with her daughter, Lola Leon, which is their first collaboration.
  • The album also features a song called "Bizarre," produced with Dutch DJ Martin Garrix.
  • Madonna’s song "I Feel So Free" from the album hit No. 1 on the Billboard Dance Airplay chart earlier this year.
  • She debuted the song "Bring Your Love," featuring Sabrina Carpenter, at the Coachella music festival.
  • Madonna premiered a film called "Confessions II – The Film" at the Tribeca Film Festival, which brings the first six songs of the album to life using music and performance art.
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What we know about the Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce wedding

What we know about the Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce wedding

Summary

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are getting married, and their wedding day is happening now. Madison Square Garden is under heavy security to manage the event.

Key Facts

  • Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are the couple getting married.
  • Their wedding day has arrived.
  • The event is taking place at Madison Square Garden.
  • Security at Madison Square Garden is very tight for the wedding.
  • CBS News is covering the event live.
  • Jack Irvin from People magazine is discussing the wedding.
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Is China’s new ethnic unity law a step towards forced assimilation?

Is China’s new ethnic unity law a step towards forced assimilation?

Summary

China has started a new law promoting ethnic unity, which makes Mandarin the main language in schools, government work, and public places. The Chinese government says this law helps keep society united and prevents separatism, but critics worry it may reduce the rights of ethnic minorities like Uighurs and Tibetans.

Key Facts

  • China’s new ethnic unity law requires Mandarin as the main language in education and official settings.
  • The law aims to support social cohesion and stop separatist movements, according to Beijing.
  • Some activists believe the law could harm the cultural rights of ethnic minorities such as Uighurs and Tibetans.
  • The law includes a rule that allows China to take action against people who break it even if they are outside China.
  • Taiwan’s government warns the law might target critics of Beijing living there.
  • The law took effect recently and has raised international concerns about ethnic and political freedoms in China.
  • Experts from different organizations discussed the law’s implications in a public forum.
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Brazil’s top presidential candidates Lula and Flávio Bolsonaro clash over US tariff proposal

Brazil’s top presidential candidates Lula and Flávio Bolsonaro clash over US tariff proposal

Summary

Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and presidential candidate Flávio Bolsonaro disagreed publicly over a proposal by the U.S. government to place 25% tariffs on Brazilian products. Both see the issue as important for Brazil’s upcoming election, with Lula defending Brazil’s trade policies and sovereignty, while Bolsonaro says the tariffs could politically help Lula.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. proposed a 25% tariff on Brazilian imports despite having a trade surplus with Brazil.
  • President Trump’s administration initially imposed a 50% tariff on Brazilian goods last year, citing unfair trade practices and corruption concerns.
  • Lula and Bolsonaro are the leading candidates for Brazil’s October 2026 presidential election.
  • Lula warned President Trump not to interfere in Brazil’s elections amid tariff tensions.
  • Flávio Bolsonaro submitted documents to the U.S. Trade Representative suggesting delaying tariff implementation.
  • Bolsonaro claims U.S. tariff pressure has improved Lula’s standing in public opinion polls.
  • Lula described Bolsonaro’s support for the tariffs as a “treason” against Brazil.
  • The disagreement reflects broader friction between Brazil and the U.S. over trade and political influence.
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Rare copy of Declaration of Independence found by UK National Archives in papers of captured U.S. privateer ship

Rare copy of Declaration of Independence found by UK National Archives in papers of captured U.S. privateer ship

Summary

A volunteer at Britain's National Archives found a rare early copy of the U.S. Declaration of Independence in documents related to a captured American privateer ship from 1776. This copy was taken from the privateer Dalton, captured by the British Navy, and it is the only known Exeter printing outside the United States.

Key Facts

  • The document was found by Michael Scurr while cataloging Royal Navy captain’s papers.
  • It is an early printed copy of the Declaration of Independence, made between July 16-19, 1776.
  • This edition is called the Exeter printing; only 11 original copies are known to exist.
  • The document was found attached to a report on the capture of the American privateer Dalton on Christmas Eve 1776.
  • Dalton was a private ship authorized by the Continental Congress to fight British vessels.
  • The British warship HMS Raisonnable captured the Dalton near Portugal after a seven-hour chase.
  • The Dalton’s crew was imprisoned in harsh conditions in England, with some surviving over two years of captivity.
  • The document likely was read aloud on the ship to motivate and inform the crew about the reason for their fight.
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Taylor Swift fans brave the New York heat to be (at least somewhat) near wedding to Travis Kelce

Taylor Swift fans brave the New York heat to be (at least somewhat) near wedding to Travis Kelce

Summary

Taylor Swift’s fans gathered outside Madison Square Garden in New York during a wedding celebration for Swift and NFL player Travis Kelce. The couple’s event drew large crowds and police presence, although details about the wedding remained private.

Key Facts

  • Fans gathered in hot weather outside Madison Square Garden for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding celebration.
  • There are rumors, but no confirmed reports, that Swift and Kelce have already married.
  • The venue was chosen partly because Taylor Swift is a private person and is a big New York Knicks fan.
  • About 1,000 people were allowed to attend, with permits and security measures in place.
  • Fans enjoyed the shared experience even without full knowledge of the event’s details.
  • International visitors also came to see the venue despite limited access to the wedding itself.
  • Swift’s fans come from many age groups and expressed support for the couple.
  • Travis Kelce is an NFL player known for winning the Super Bowl with the Kansas City Chiefs.
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Woman denies consensual encounter in Top Boy actor rape trial

Woman denies consensual encounter in Top Boy actor rape trial

Summary

Actor Michael Ward faces trial for allegedly raping a woman in a car after meeting her at a nightclub in London in January 2023. Ward denies all charges, saying the sexual acts were consensual, while the woman says she did not consent and was upset after the event.

Key Facts

  • Michael Ward is accused of raping a woman in a car in east London in January 2023.
  • Ward denies two rape charges and three sexual assault charges, claiming all sexual encounters were consensual.
  • The woman said she did not understand what was happening and would not have gotten in the car if she had known.
  • She said she did not say "no" but shut down during the encounter and asked several times to leave.
  • A friend noticed the woman crying and acting differently after the incident and asked if she had been assaulted.
  • The woman ordered a sexual health test kit and indicated on it she had been sexually assaulted.
  • Ward told police after his arrest that he denied the rape allegation and said the sex was consensual.
  • Michael Ward is known for his acting roles in Top Boy, Small Axe, and Empire of Light and won a Bafta Rising Star Award in 2020.
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