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Zelensky sacks Ukraine's top army commander after days of protests

Zelensky sacks Ukraine's top army commander after days of protests

July 21, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has removed the country’s top army commander, Oleksandr Syrskyi, shortly after firing Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. Syrskyi was replaced by Mykhailo Drapatyi, a general known for his frontline experience.

Key Facts

  • President Zelensky fired commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi on July 21, 2026.
  • This happened days after Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov was also removed from his position.
  • Fedorov was popular for reforming the military and fighting corruption.
  • Syrskyi is viewed by many as a traditional commander, hesitant to make big changes.
  • Zelensky thanked Syrskyi for defending Kyiv at the start of Russia’s invasion in 2022.
  • Mykhailo Drapatyi, a battle-experienced general, replaced Syrskyi as commander-in-chief.
  • The leadership changes caused protests across Ukraine.
  • Zelensky said all decisions would be officially finalized the next day.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
Andy Burnham implores cabinet to examine ‘all possible ways’ to tackle cost of living crisis

Andy Burnham implores cabinet to examine ‘all possible ways’ to tackle cost of living crisis

July 21, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has asked his cabinet to explore all options to reduce the cost of living for people. On his first day in office, he announced that VAT on electricity bills will be removed starting October 1, which will cost £850 million next year. He is also planning to speed up the introduction of a national care service and aims to balance these policies within current borrowing limits.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham wants his government to focus on lowering the cost of living for citizens.
  • VAT on electricity bills will be removed from October 1, reducing bills by £45 and costing £850 million next year.
  • Funding for the VAT cut will come from existing department budgets, potentially leading to cuts elsewhere.
  • The government plans to accelerate the rollout of a national care service before the next election.
  • The digital ID program, which Burnham wants to scrap to fund VAT cuts, was not funded and money details remain unclear.
  • The Prime Minister’s new office structure includes the creation of a powerful Office for the Prime Minister and the Cabinet.
  • John Healey, the new chancellor, is working on a broader budget plan to tackle the cost of living later this year.
  • Burnham has ruled out borrowing more money to pay for increased defense spending.
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Guardian World
Kaylee Hottle, deaf ‘Godzilla’ actor, killed in car crash at 18

Kaylee Hottle, deaf ‘Godzilla’ actor, killed in car crash at 18

July 21, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Kaylee Hottle, an 18-year-old deaf actor known for her role in two Godzilla movies, died in a car crash in Maryland. The crash happened early in the morning, and speed is believed to have played a role.

Key Facts

  • Kaylee Hottle was a deaf actress who starred as Jia in “Godzilla vs. Kong” and its sequel.
  • She died in a car accident in Ijamsville, Maryland, before 3 a.m.
  • She was one of two passengers; the driver survived with minor injuries.
  • The crash is being investigated, with excessive speed likely a factor.
  • Hottle used American Sign Language (ASL) and came from a deaf family.
  • Her co-stars and school community expressed sadness and offered support.
  • She had roles in TV and was set to appear in an upcoming film called “What Doesn’t Kill Us.”
  • The Texas School for the Deaf announced counseling services for those affected by her death.
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AP News
India tunnel collapse kills 10 as toxic gases hamper rescue

India tunnel collapse kills 10 as toxic gases hamper rescue

July 21, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

A tunnel collapsed at a hydropower project in northeast India after a suspected gas explosion. At least 10 people died, and 17 others, including rescuers, are still trapped inside.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened at a hydropower project in northeast India.
  • A tunnel collapsed due to a suspected gas explosion.
  • At least 10 people died as a result.
  • 17 people, including rescuers, remain trapped inside the tunnel.
  • Toxic gases are making rescue efforts difficult.
  • Authorities are working to reach the trapped individuals.
  • The cause of the gas explosion is still being investigated.
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Al Jazeera
Can mediators broker a truce between the US and Iran?

Can mediators broker a truce between the US and Iran?

July 21, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Mediators from countries like Qatar and Egypt are trying to stop the growing conflict between the United States and Iran by proposing a 10-day pause in fighting and reopening the important shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz. Both sides have continued military attacks recently, and it is uncertain if diplomacy can prevent further escalation.

Key Facts

  • Regional mediators have presented a plan to the US and Iran to pause fighting for 10 days.
  • The plan aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping lane for global oil and gas.
  • The US and Iran have recently expanded attacks beyond military targets to include civilian infrastructure.
  • President Donald Trump has promised that Iran will "pay" after US troop deaths.
  • The fighting began on February 28, triggered by Israeli and US strikes on Iran.
  • The two countries signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in April to reduce hostilities, but both accuse each other of breaking it.
  • Previous talks to ease tensions broke down, partly because the MoU was vague and open to different interpretations.
  • The proposal includes ideas for managing shipping fees, possibly involving international organizations or allowing Iran to charge fees for maritime security.
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Al Jazeera
Lawyer in sensitive Vatican abuse case issues scathing critique of church’s secretive legal system

Lawyer in sensitive Vatican abuse case issues scathing critique of church’s secretive legal system

July 21, 2026 • AP News

Summary

A lawyer representing five women accused a former Jesuit priest and religious artist, Marko Rupnik, of sexual and spiritual abuse. The lawyer criticized the Vatican’s secretive legal process, where the victims have little information about the trial, which is still ongoing.

Key Facts

  • Five women accuse Rev. Marko Ivan Rupnik of sexual and spiritual abuse.
  • Rupnik is a former Jesuit priest and well-known religious artist who created mosaics worldwide.
  • The Vatican’s legal process is secretive and does not inform victims about trial details.
  • Reports said Rupnik was absolved in a Vatican trial, but the Vatican said the case is still open.
  • Rupnik was excommunicated briefly in 2020 for abusing the confessional to forgive a woman he had a sexual relationship with.
  • The Jesuits expelled Rupnik from their order in 2023 after multiple women accused him over 30 years.
  • Pope Francis waived the statute of limitations so the Vatican could try the older claims.
  • Vatican officials emphasize the need for a fair trial and respect for the presumption of innocence.
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AP News
A new threat by Yemen’s Houthis could widen the Iran war and put another trade chokepoint at risk

A new threat by Yemen’s Houthis could widen the Iran war and put another trade chokepoint at risk

July 21, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Yemen’s Houthi rebels have declared a blockade of Saudi Arabia by closing the Bab el-Mandeb Strait to Saudi-linked ships. This action could spread the Iran war and disrupt global trade and oil shipments, as the strait is a key route connecting Europe and Asia.

Key Facts

  • The Houthi rebels say they closed the Bab el-Mandeb Strait to ships connected to Saudi Arabia.
  • Bab el-Mandeb is a narrow sea passage between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Arabia.
  • About 12% of the world’s trade and 25% of container traffic passes through this strait.
  • The blockade is reportedly in response to Saudi actions against Yemen and an attack on Sanaa’s airport.
  • The Houthis plan to use naval mines, drones, boats with explosives, and helicopters to enforce the blockade.
  • This strait is especially important now because the nearby Strait of Hormuz has limited shipping during the Iran war.
  • The Houthis do not control the coastline at the strait but hold territory nearby.
  • Disruptions in both Bab el-Mandeb and the Strait of Hormuz could severely affect global shipping routes.
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AP News
Rescuers search for flood survivors in Afghanistan

Rescuers search for flood survivors in Afghanistan

July 21, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Rescuers in eastern Afghanistan’s Nuristan province are looking for survivors after flash floods and a landslide caused deadly damage. So far, at least 23 people have died, and many more are missing as heavy rain continues.

Key Facts

  • The disaster happened in Nuristan province, eastern Afghanistan.
  • Flash floods and a landslide caused the destruction.
  • Rescuers are searching through mud and rubble for survivors.
  • At least 23 people have been confirmed dead.
  • Many people are still missing.
  • Officials warn more heavy rain is expected.
  • The death toll may rise as rescue efforts continue.
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Al Jazeera
Trump says he’s open to talks with Hezbollah, vows to help Lebanon

Trump says he’s open to talks with Hezbollah, vows to help Lebanon

July 21, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

President Donald Trump met with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House. During the meeting, President Trump said he is willing to have direct talks with Hezbollah if Lebanon asks for it, and he promised ongoing support for Lebanon.

Key Facts

  • President Trump met with Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun at the White House.
  • Trump said he is open to direct talks with Hezbollah, a Lebanese political and militant group, if Lebanon requests it.
  • He promised the United States will continue to support Lebanon.
  • Hezbollah is an important group in Lebanon’s politics and security.
  • The meeting shows ongoing diplomatic engagement between the U.S. and Lebanon.
  • The U.S. has historically provided support to Lebanon for stability and security.
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Al Jazeera
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar set to become a minister in Burnham's government

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar set to become a minister in Burnham's government

July 21, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Anas Sarwar, the leader of Scottish Labour, is expected to leave his role and the Scottish Parliament to become a minister in Andy Burnham's government in the UK House of Lords. This move will create a vacancy in Scottish Labour’s leadership and shift Sarwar from Scottish politics to a ministerial position in Westminster.

Key Facts

  • Anas Sarwar is set to step down as Scottish Labour leader.
  • He will leave the Scottish Parliament and move to the House of Lords.
  • Sarwar is expected to become a business minister under Andy Burnham’s leadership.
  • Scottish Labour won 17 out of 129 seats in the recent Scottish Parliament elections.
  • Sarwar had previously called for Sir Keir Starmer to resign in February 2026.
  • New rules stop politicians from serving in both the Scottish Parliament (Holyrood) and UK Parliament (Westminster) at the same time.
  • No by-election will happen for Sarwar's Scottish Parliament seat because he was elected via a regional list.
  • Andy Burnham recently became leader of the Labour Party at Westminster.
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BBC Top Stories
Joseph Aoun in Washington: Bilal Saab firmly believes 'this meeting couldn't have gone any better'

Joseph Aoun in Washington: Bilal Saab firmly believes 'this meeting couldn't have gone any better'

July 21, 2026 • France24

Summary

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun visited Washington to seek stronger international support for Lebanon’s government and independence. Bilal Saab, a close associate of President Aoun, said the meeting went very well and emphasized that Lebanon needs ongoing political backing rather than military pressure to deal with challenges from Hezbollah, regional tensions, and security issues with Israel.

Key Facts

  • President Joseph Aoun traveled to Washington to meet with U.S. officials.
  • Bilal Saab, a senior research director and friend of Aoun, called the meeting highly successful.
  • The visit aims to boost global support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and government institutions.
  • Lebanon faces challenges from Hezbollah, regional conflicts, and security concerns with Israel.
  • Saab said military force won't solve Lebanon’s problems; instead, the country needs steady political support.
  • Lebanon is seen as a test for U.S. diplomacy in the Middle East and an example of fragile state-building.
  • The discussion highlighted the importance of concrete political backing, not just symbolic gestures.
  • The visit included talks about Lebanon’s army and cooperation with the U.S. under President Donald Trump.
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France24
France first European country to ban social media access for under-15s

France first European country to ban social media access for under-15s

July 21, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

France's parliament has passed a law banning children under 15 from using social media platforms like TikTok, making it the first European country to do so. The government aims to start enforcing the ban by September 2024, with full restrictions on existing accounts by 2027, to protect children’s mental health online.

Key Facts

  • The ban applies to children under 15 years old and covers major social media apps such as TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram.
  • New accounts created by under-15s will be blocked starting September 1, 2024. Existing accounts will be blocked from January 2027.
  • Age verification tools will be used to enforce the ban, requiring everyone in France to prove their age for social media access.
  • Exceptions are made for educational sites and online encyclopedias.
  • The ban comes after studies showed social media can harm adolescents’ mental health, especially girls.
  • The law also includes a ban on mobile phones in high schools starting at the new school year.
  • Some lawmakers had different opinions on how strict the ban should be, but the final decision was a full ban without parental consent.
  • The European Commission supports gradual age limits and has developed an age verification app for use across EU countries.
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Guardian World
Cats May Not Be the Stress Relievers Owners Believe

Cats May Not Be the Stress Relievers Owners Believe

July 21, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A new study found that spending time with pets generally makes people feel better, but interacting with cats during stressful moments may be linked to slightly more negative feelings. Researchers say this does not mean cats cause stress, but that the relationship between pets and stress relief is more complex than people thought.

Key Facts

  • The study tracked 188 pet owners for five days, checking their mood and stress several times a day.
  • Spending time with pets was linked to more positive emotions overall.
  • During stressful moments, pet interactions did not clearly reduce stress.
  • Cat owners who interacted more with their cats during stress reported a small increase in negative emotions.
  • Researchers suggest this might be because people seek cats when already feeling stressed, not because cats cause stress.
  • Cats and dogs may comfort owners in different ways; dogs often encourage physical activity, cats offer quieter companionship.
  • Experts say the findings are not definite and more studies are needed to understand pets’ effects on stress.
  • Cat owners who find comfort in their pets during stress should continue their routines and pay attention to what feels helpful.
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Newsweek
Trump says Lebanon has been "badly treated" as Aoun pushes for withdrawal of Israeli troops

Trump says Lebanon has been "badly treated" as Aoun pushes for withdrawal of Israeli troops

July 21, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

President Donald Trump said Lebanon has been treated unfairly after meeting with Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun. President Aoun asked for Israeli troops to leave southern Lebanon, and President Trump promised to help Lebanon receive fair treatment.

Key Facts

  • President Trump met with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.
  • President Aoun requested the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon.
  • President Trump said Lebanon has been "badly treated."
  • Trump pledged to help Lebanon get fair treatment.
  • The issue involves the presence of Israeli forces in Lebanon’s southern area.
  • The meeting took place on a Tuesday.
  • CBS News reported on the discussion and the pledges made.
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CBS News
Pope Leo Urges Peace and Nuclear Disarmament as Trump Doubles Down on Iran

Pope Leo Urges Peace and Nuclear Disarmament as Trump Doubles Down on Iran

July 21, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Pope Leo XIV called for peace and nuclear disarmament amid rising conflict between the U.S. and Iran. At the same time, President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. plans to increase military actions against Iran to prevent it from developing nuclear weapons.

Key Facts

  • Pope Leo XIV urged people to seek peace and reject war, especially the current conflict escalating since February 28.
  • The pope emphasized that true peace requires truth and cannot be achieved by war or political talk alone.
  • President Trump said Iran wants to negotiate a ceasefire but that the conflict is not over.
  • Trump warned that the U.S. would target any site related to Iran’s nuclear program, mentioning an underground complex called Pickaxe Mountain.
  • Trump claimed the U.S. has dealt Iran damage that would take 20-25 years to recover from.
  • Three U.S. service members died recently in the Middle East due to an Iranian missile and drone attack.
  • Trump blamed others for a security failure in Jordan where the attack happened but did not specify who.
  • The U.S. is maintaining a strict military blockade of Iranian ports, described by Trump as a "steel wall."
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Newsweek
Netherlands to sanction trade with illegal Israeli settlements

Netherlands to sanction trade with illegal Israeli settlements

July 21, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The Netherlands will ban imports of goods from illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories starting September 22. This decision makes the Netherlands one of several European countries taking independent steps to restrict trade linked to these settlements, which are considered unlawful under international law.

Key Facts

  • The Dutch government approved a decree to ban the import, purchase, and sale of goods from illegal Israeli settlements in the Palestinian Territories.
  • The ban takes effect on September 22 and also prohibits Dutch companies from helping trade in these goods.
  • The Dutch lower house parliament supported these measures last year.
  • Other EU countries like Belgium, Spain, and Ireland have also taken similar unilateral actions.
  • The Netherlands views Israeli settlements in the West Bank as unlawful under international law.
  • The ban includes agricultural products such as avocados, dates, oranges, grapes, and herbs, as well as goods from the occupied Golan Heights.
  • Research shows the Netherlands accounts for about one-third of agricultural exports from these settlements to the EU.
  • The trade involved is worth tens of millions of euros annually, though the exact amount is unclear.
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Al Jazeera
Saxophonist Plas Johnson, known for solo on The Pink Panther Theme, dies aged 94

Saxophonist Plas Johnson, known for solo on The Pink Panther Theme, dies aged 94

July 21, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Plas Johnson, a US jazz saxophonist famous for playing the solo on The Pink Panther Theme, has died at age 94. He passed away on July 15 in Granada Hills, Los Angeles, shortly before his 95th birthday.

Key Facts

  • Plas Johnson was known for the tenor saxophone solo on The Pink Panther Theme, recorded in 1963 with composer Henry Mancini.
  • The Pink Panther score won three Grammy awards and was nominated for an Oscar for best original score.
  • Johnson began his music career singing with his family and played several types of saxophones.
  • He moved to Los Angeles in 1954 and worked as a session musician with famous artists like BB King, Frank Sinatra, and Nat King Cole.
  • Johnson’s solo on The Pink Panther Theme was recorded in just two takes.
  • He made his recording debut in 1950 with his brother for DeLuxe Records.
  • Johnson died at home in Granada Hills, Los Angeles, six days before his 95th birthday.
  • News of his death was shared by his hometown newspaper and family members on social media.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Zelensky faces deepening political crisis as protests dig in

Zelensky faces deepening political crisis as protests dig in

July 21, 2026 • France24

Summary

In Ukraine, protests are growing as people demand President Volodymyr Zelensky to bring back the former Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and to remove General Oleksandr Syrsky, the military chief of staff. The protests began after Zelensky dismissed Fedorov, following disputes between officials, and criticized Syrsky for harsh tactics and corruption.

Key Facts

  • Protesters want President Zelensky to reinstate Mykhailo Fedorov as Defence Minister.
  • They also want General Oleksandr Syrsky to be fired from his military leadership role.
  • Fedorov was removed last week due to conflicts with other officials.
  • General Syrsky helped stop Russian forces from capturing Kyiv in 2022.
  • Syrsky is now unpopular because of harsh military actions and accusations of corruption.
  • The political crisis is causing increasing unrest in Ukraine.
  • The situation highlights tensions within the Ukrainian government and military leadership.
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France24
Lebanon's president urges Trump to 'keep supporting' its army

Lebanon's president urges Trump to 'keep supporting' its army

July 21, 2026 • France24

Summary

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met with President Donald Trump, who promised to provide significant support to Lebanon. Aoun asked the U.S. to back efforts to disarm the armed group Hezbollah and promote peace with Israel.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump pledged to help Lebanon "a lot."
  • Lebanese President Joseph Aoun requested U.S. support to disarm Hezbollah.
  • The meeting took place in Jerusalem.
  • The visit signals a fragile attempt to promote peace between Lebanon and Israel.
  • Hezbollah is an armed group based in Lebanon.
  • The meeting was seen as an unexpected move by some, particularly Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
  • The region is experiencing tensions involving Lebanon, Israel, Iran, and the U.S.
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France24
Hungarian prosecutors raid Orbán party's data center in embezzlement probe

Hungarian prosecutors raid Orbán party's data center in embezzlement probe

July 21, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Hungarian prosecutors raided data servers used by the Fidesz party, led by former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, as part of an investigation into suspected misuse of government grant money. Six officials face charges related to the alleged embezzlement of about $53.5 million from a cultural fund during Orbán’s time in office.

Key Facts

  • Prosecutors and tax investigators raided offices housing Fidesz party data servers in Hungary.
  • The raid is linked to a probe into the misuse of funds from Hungary’s National Cultural Fund.
  • About 17 billion forints (roughly $53.5 million) are involved in the alleged embezzlement.
  • Six current and former officials have been charged but deny any wrongdoing.
  • Money was reportedly distributed in a non-transparent way to artists connected to Fidesz.
  • The investigation is conducted by the Bács-Kiskun County prosecutor's office, south of Budapest.
  • Fidesz claims the raid is a political attack by the current governing Tisza party.
  • Since losing power in April, Orbán’s Fidesz accuses new leaders of trying to dismantle their system.
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PBS NewsHour