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The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

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Recent developments and breaking news

Uber ordered to pay $8.5m over claim driver raped passenger

Uber ordered to pay $8.5m over claim driver raped passenger

Summary

A U.S. court ordered Uber to pay $8.5 million to a woman who claimed she was raped by a driver. The jury found Uber responsible because the driver acted on the company's behalf. Uber plans to appeal the decision.

Key Facts

  • A U.S. court ruled that Uber must pay $8.5 million to Jaylynn Dean, who said a driver raped her in 2023.
  • The case was heard in Arizona, where a jury decided Uber was responsible for the driver's actions.
  • The court's decision could affect 2,500 other similar cases against Uber.
  • The jury found Uber liable under the "apparent agency doctrine", meaning the driver represented Uber while working for them.
  • Dean's other claims for negligence and defective safety systems by Uber were rejected.
  • The court did not award Dean more than $144 million in additional punitive damages.
  • Uber argued its drivers are independent contractors and that the assault was not foreseeable.
  • Uber plans to appeal the verdict and maintains it invests in rider safety.

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Oil and US oversight: How is Venezuela’s interim government surviving?

Oil and US oversight: How is Venezuela’s interim government surviving?

Summary

Venezuela's interim government has sold oil to the United States, earning $500 million under a new agreement. The money is kept in a restricted account and can only be used for specific purposes with US approval. Political changes are unfolding in Venezuela after President Maduro was taken by US forces, and Delcy Rodriguez is now the acting president.

Key Facts

  • Venezuela sold 30 to 50 million barrels of oil to the U.S., earning $500 million.
  • The funds are kept in a restricted account in Qatar and need U.S. approval for spending.
  • The U.S. took military action in January 2026, resulting in President Maduro's abduction.
  • Acting President Delcy Rodriguez is leading Venezuela and suggesting oil law reforms.
  • These reforms aim to attract foreign investment by easing 25-year-old restrictions.
  • U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright plans to visit Venezuela to oversee oil operations.
  • Rodriguez announced reforms and a mass amnesty bill for political prisoners.
  • Key people in the government include Jorge Rodriguez, Diosdado Cabello, and Vladimir Padrino.

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Ronaldo misses Al-Nassr game amid reported discontent with Saudi club

Ronaldo misses Al-Nassr game amid reported discontent with Saudi club

Summary

Cristiano Ronaldo missed two games for Al-Nassr, a Saudi Arabian football club, due to reported dissatisfaction with the club's management concerning its lack of player acquisitions. Despite rumors of unrest, Ronaldo is not injured and does not plan to leave the club. The Saudi Pro League stated that all clubs operate under the same rules and financial limits.

Key Facts

  • Cristiano Ronaldo missed two consecutive games for Al-Nassr.
  • Reports suggest he is unhappy with the club's owner over limited transfer activity.
  • He missed games against Al-Ittihad and Al-Riyadh.
  • Ronaldo is reportedly upset with the Saudi Public Investment Fund's management.
  • The Saudi Pro League stated that clubs operate independently but follow the same rules.
  • Ronaldo's absence is not due to injury or conflict with the team manager.
  • Ronaldo signed a contract extension with Al-Nassr until June 2025.
  • Ronaldo has scored 17 goals for Al-Nassr this season.

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Motive unclear after Canada engineering students charged in explosives case

Motive unclear after Canada engineering students charged in explosives case

Summary

Four engineering students in Canada have been arrested for possessing explosives and firearms. The police are examining their possible motives but have not identified them yet. There is no evidence to classify this case as terrorism or a national security threat.

Key Facts

  • Four students from Western University in London, Ontario, are arrested.
  • The students are suspected of having explosives and guns.
  • Police found a loaded gun and bomb-making chemicals at their residences in London, Ottawa, and Gatineau.
  • A YouTube video shows one suspect discussing an anti-drone weapons system.
  • The video is part of the ongoing investigation.
  • The suspects face charges related to firearms and explosives.
  • There is no current indication of terrorism or a national security threat.
  • The suspects are in custody, with upcoming bail hearings for two of them.

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New Yemen government formed with Shaya Mohsin al-Zindani as prime minister

New Yemen government formed with Shaya Mohsin al-Zindani as prime minister

Summary

Yemen has a new government after its presidential leadership council, backed by Saudi Arabia, appointed Shaya Mohsin al-Zindani as prime minister. Zindani will also continue as foreign minister. The council named new ministers for finance, oil, and defense.

Key Facts

  • Shaya Mohsin al-Zindani is the new prime minister of Yemen.
  • Zindani will also remain the foreign minister.
  • The presidential leadership council in Yemen made this decision.
  • Saudi Arabia backs Yemen's presidential leadership council.
  • The new finance minister is Marwan Faraj bin Ghanim.
  • Mohamed Abdullah Ali is the new oil minister.
  • Taher Ali al-Uqaili is the new defense minister.
  • The leadership council accepted the previous prime minister's resignation.

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Mexico promises food support for Cuba as US stifles the island’s fuel supply

Mexico promises food support for Cuba as US stifles the island’s fuel supply

Summary

Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum has announced plans to send food and supplies to Cuba in response to a U.S. oil blockade. Sheinbaum aims to negotiate with President Donald Trump to lift the blockade, while considering the risk of U.S. sanctions against Mexico. This humanitarian aid aims to help Cuba, which faces significant economic challenges and energy shortages.

Key Facts

  • Mexico plans to send humanitarian food aid to Cuba soon.
  • The U.S., under President Trump, has imposed an oil blockade on Cuba, viewing its government as a threat.
  • The U.S. announced it will levy tariffs on countries that supply oil to Cuba.
  • Mexico is trying to negotiate with the U.S. to lift the oil blockade.
  • Venezuela, previously a major oil supplier to Cuba, stopped oil shipments following U.S. pressure.
  • The U.S. issued additional humanitarian aid of $6 million to Cuba through the Catholic Church.
  • Cuba's Deputy Foreign Minister criticized the U.S. aid as hypocritical due to the ongoing blockade.
  • The island nation is experiencing severe economic difficulties, including power shortages.

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Anti-ICE protesters rally in Milan before Winter Olympics

Anti-ICE protesters rally in Milan before Winter Olympics

Summary

In Milan, protesters gathered to oppose the presence of U.S. immigration agents before the start of the Winter Olympics. The protest focused on the reported presence of ICE officials in the city. Italy's Interior Minister stated that these officials would only work within U.S. diplomatic areas.

Key Facts

  • Protesters in Milan gathered against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) presence before the Winter Olympics.
  • The protest was led by students and featured banners against ICE.
  • ICE officials are reported to be providing security for the U.S. delegation at the games.
  • Italy's Interior Minister said ICE officials in Milan would have no operational role outside U.S. diplomatic missions.
  • Protesters used plastic whistles as a symbol, following a trend from U.S. anti-ICE protests.
  • U.S. Vice President JD Vance was visiting Italy during the protests.
  • Relations between the U.S. and Europe have been tense under President Donald Trump's administration.

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Thousands attend funeral for Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, son of Libyan ex-leader

Thousands attend funeral for Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, son of Libyan ex-leader

Summary

People gathered in Bani Walid for the funeral of Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, who was killed. He was the well-known son of Libya's former leader, Muammar Gaddafi.

Key Facts

  • Saif al-Islam Gaddafi was assassinated.
  • He was a son of Muammar Gaddafi, who used to lead Libya.
  • The funeral took place in the town of Bani Walid.
  • Many people, numbering in the thousands, attended the funeral.
  • Saif al-Islam was considered the most prominent surviving son of the Gaddafi family.

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Is globalisation killing craftsmanship?

Is globalisation killing craftsmanship?

Summary

The article discusses how globalization affects traditional craft-making, putting these handmade skills at risk. It questions if these crafts can continue to be valued and relevant in a world focused on fast production and large-scale manufacturing.

Key Facts

  • Globalization is changing how products are made and consumed.
  • Traditional crafts face threats from faster and cheaper mass production methods.
  • The loss of traditional crafts can impact sustainability and cultural identity.
  • The article explores whether handmade work still holds value today.
  • Experts like Somesh Singh, Fadi Kattan, and Sabah Arbilli contribute to the discussion on the future of craftsmanship.

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Trump revives racist imagery once seen as disqualifying

Trump revives racist imagery once seen as disqualifying

Summary

President Trump posted a video with racist imagery of former President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama on his Truth Social account, which he later deleted after backlash. The imagery used has a long history of being considered explicitly racist and has often led to severe consequences for those using it. Despite the backlash, the call for accountability remains limited to demands for an apology.

Key Facts

  • President Trump posted a video with racist content about the Obamas.
  • The video showed the Obamas as apes, a racist depiction with historical roots.
  • Trump deleted the video 12 hours later after facing significant criticism.
  • The White House initially dismissed the criticism but later removed the post following backlash.
  • Prominent Republican Sen. Tim Scott expressed hope that the video was fake and called for its removal.
  • Historically, such racist depictions have led to firings and public outcry.
  • Imagery dehumanizing Black people, like ape imagery, has been labeled explicitly racist by civil rights groups.
  • In past instances, public figures faced severe consequences for similar actions.

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Raducanu reaches first final since 2021 US Open triumph

Raducanu reaches first final since 2021 US Open triumph

Summary

Emma Raducanu reached the final of the Transylvania Open, marking her first final since winning the 2021 US Open. She won against Oleksandra Oliynykova in a closely contested match that went to three sets. Katie Boulter also made it to a finals match, making them the first two British women to play Tour-level finals on the same day.

Key Facts

  • Emma Raducanu reached her first final since her 2021 US Open win.
  • Raducanu won against Oleksandra Oliynykova with scores 7-5, 3-6, 6-3.
  • Raducanu's win at the Transylvania Open ended a streak of losses in semi-finals.
  • Katie Boulter reached the final of the Ostrava Open after defeating Katie Volynets.
  • Raducanu and Boulter will be the first two British women to compete in Tour-level finals on the same day.
  • Raducanu has faced challenges with injuries and several coaching changes since 2021.
  • Raducanu addressed the crowd in Romanian, acknowledging her father's heritage.
  • Boulter aims to return to the top 100 in the world rankings with a win in the Czech Republic.

Source Verification

Murder charge after student stabbed near university

Murder charge after student stabbed near university

Summary

An 18-year-old man has been charged with the murder of a 20-year-old university student named Khaleed Oladipo, who was fatally stabbed near De Montfort University in Leicester, UK. The suspect, Harper Dennis, has also been charged with possessing a weapon. The police are investigating the incident, and roads near the scene were closed as part of the investigation.

Key Facts

  • Khaleed Oladipo, a 20-year-old student, was fatally stabbed near De Montfort University in Leicester.
  • He was studying cyber-security and in his second year at the university.
  • Harper Dennis, 18, from West Drayton, London, is charged with murder and weapon possession.
  • Police responded to the stabbing in Oxford Street, Leicester, just after 17:00 GMT on Tuesday.
  • A post-mortem confirmed that Oladipo died from a stab wound to the chest.
  • Dennis is scheduled to appear in court, and he faces separate charges for possessing weapons unrelated to the murder.
  • Several roads near the scene were closed following the stabbing.
  • Oladipo's family released a tribute, describing him as a beloved family member with a passion for football.

Source Verification

Republicans condemn racist Trump video post depicting Obamas as apes

Republicans condemn racist Trump video post depicting Obamas as apes

Summary

President Donald Trump shared a video on his Truth Social account depicting Barack and Michelle Obama as apes, which led to widespread criticism for being racist. The video was later removed after backlash from both Republicans and Democrats. The White House initially described the post as a meme shared by mistake by a staffer.

Key Facts

  • President Trump shared a video showing Barack and Michelle Obama as apes.
  • The video was posted on Trump's Truth Social account during a series of late-night messages.
  • The video was quickly condemned as racist by members of both political parties.
  • Republican Senator Tim Scott and Representative Mike Lawler publicly criticized the video.
  • The White House claimed that a staff member shared the video by mistake.
  • The incident came as Trump is active on social media after co-founding Truth Social.
  • Trump has a history of sharing controversial posts and engaging in contentious public relations.

Source Verification

'I love her to bits' – elderly couple get engaged in care home

'I love her to bits' – elderly couple get engaged in care home

Summary

Pamela Walters, 85, and Colin Hopper, 73, who live in a care home in Porthcawl, Wales, have gotten engaged after four years of companionship. Pamela proposed to Colin, and staff at the care home helped them celebrate with a party. This engagement has brought joy to both the couple and the care home staff.

Key Facts

  • Pamela Walters is 85 years old, and Colin Hopper is 73.
  • They met four years ago at Picton Care Home in Porthcawl, Wales.
  • Pamela proposed to Colin in her room, and he agreed.
  • Colin arranged for an engagement ring with the help of the care home staff.
  • Their engagement party took place on January 28 with staff's assistance.
  • Both Pamela and Colin have expressed happiness about their engagement.
  • The care home staff and Pamela's family are pleased with the couple's happiness.
  • For now, the couple is enjoying their companionship without immediate wedding plans.

Source Verification

Guantanamo detainee's lawyers claim office raid by UK was unlawful

Guantanamo detainee's lawyers claim office raid by UK was unlawful

Summary

Lawyers for a Guantanamo detainee argue that the UK government unlawfully entered a barrister's office and took legal documents. The case revolves around claims that UK intelligence was involved in the torture of an alleged al-Qaeda member. A court ordered the seized materials returned and scheduled a further hearing to decide the legality of the government's actions.

Key Facts

  • Abu Faraj al-Libi, a Libyan in Guantanamo since 2006, is involved in the legal case.
  • The UK government allegedly entered barrister Rachel Toney's office without permission.
  • Documents related to al-Libi and another detainee, Abu-Zubaydah, were seized and deleted.
  • The case involves allegations of UK intelligence complicity in torture by the CIA.
  • Mr. Justice Chamberlain ordered the return of the seized materials to Toney.
  • The hearing for deciding the legality of the raid is set for March 25.
  • Security-cleared special advocates have access to parts of the case not available to al-Libi's own legal team.

Source Verification

UK police search Mandelson-linked properties as part of Epstein probe

UK police search Mandelson-linked properties as part of Epstein probe

Summary

British police are investigating two properties linked to Peter Mandelson as part of an investigation into misconduct in public office related to Jeffrey Epstein. The properties are being searched for evidence that Mandelson may have passed sensitive information to Epstein. Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces criticism over his decision to appoint Mandelson as ambassador.

Key Facts

  • British police are searching two properties connected to Peter Mandelson.
  • The investigation involves allegations of misconduct in public office.
  • The properties are located in Camden, London, and Wiltshire.
  • Mandelson is investigated for allegedly passing sensitive information to Jeffrey Epstein.
  • No charges have been filed against Mandelson.
  • Prime Minister Keir Starmer had appointed Mandelson as an ambassador.
  • Starmer apologized for relying on false information about Mandelson.
  • Mandelson has resigned from the Labour Party and his parliamentary position.

Source Verification

Iranian FM says indirect talks with US were a ‘good start’

Iranian FM says indirect talks with US were a ‘good start’

Summary

Iran's foreign minister described indirect talks with the United States, facilitated by Oman, as a positive beginning despite significant distrust between the two countries.

Key Facts

  • Iran and the United States had indirect talks.
  • Oman helped mediate these discussions.
  • Iran's foreign minister commented on the talks.
  • He called them a "good start."
  • There is still significant mistrust between Iran and the U.S.

Source Verification

Suspect in deadly 2012 Benghazi attack in custody, officials say

Suspect in deadly 2012 Benghazi attack in custody, officials say

Summary

A suspect named Zubayr Al-Bakoush, believed to be a key participant in the 2012 Benghazi attack on an American consulate in Libya, has been arrested and taken into U.S. custody. He faces multiple charges, including murder for the deaths of four Americans, including the U.S. ambassador to Libya. The U.S. conducted a coordinated operation with international partners to capture him.

Key Facts

  • Zubayr Al-Bakoush was arrested and arrived in the U.S. at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland.
  • He faces eight criminal charges, including two counts of murder.
  • The charges relate to the deaths of four Americans, including U.S. ambassador Chris Stevens.
  • The 2012 Benghazi attack has been a significant political issue in the U.S.
  • Officials involved in the announcement included Attorney General Pam Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel, and U.S. attorney Jeanine Pirro.
  • The U.S. worked with international partners to arrest Al-Bakoush.
  • Two others have been convicted for their roles in the Benghazi attack.
  • The Benghazi attack took place on September 11, 2012, in Libya.

Source Verification

'Why be normal, when you can be the best?' - Zlatan opens Winter Olympics

'Why be normal, when you can be the best?' - Zlatan opens Winter Olympics

Summary

Zlatan Ibrahimovic, a former football player from Sweden, opened the 2026 Winter Olympic Games. The event is being covered by the BBC, with a focus on what it takes to become a champion.

Key Facts

  • Zlatan Ibrahimovic is a former football player who played for AC Milan and Sweden.
  • He opened the 2026 Winter Olympic Games.
  • The opening was shown by the BBC.
  • The 2026 Winter Olympics are taking place in Milan-Cortina, Italy.
  • The BBC is covering the event starting from February 6.
  • The BBC's coverage and related videos are available only to UK audiences.

Source Verification

Ukrainian mother's joy after phone call with son she thought had been killed

Ukrainian mother's joy after phone call with son she thought had been killed

Summary

A Ukrainian soldier, previously believed dead, surprised his family by calling them after being released from Russian captivity. The soldier, Nazar Daletskyi, was earlier thought to have been killed in action and was buried by his family. His unexpected phone call has brought immense joy to his family.

Key Facts

  • Nazar Daletskyi was a Ukrainian soldier thought to have died in action.
  • His family buried what they believed was his body in 2023 in Ukraine.
  • Nazar was actually captured and held by Russia, and he was just released in a prisoner swap.
  • His family received a phone call from him, bringing them unexpected joy.
  • A mistaken identification led to a body being buried as Nazar, based on DNA and other evidence.
  • An investigation is planned to understand the identification mistake.
  • Nazar had been missing for almost four years before confirming he was alive.
  • Approximately 70,000 people are missing in Ukraine, with many families hoping for similar news.

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