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The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

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Recent developments and breaking news

Epstein revelations spur calls to scrape Lutnick's name from college library

Epstein revelations spur calls to scrape Lutnick's name from college library

Summary

Students and alumni at Haverford College are asking the school to remove Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick's name from its library. This follows reports of Lutnick's contacts with Jeffrey Epstein after Epstein's conviction. The college's president is considering the issue and has not yet decided on any action.

Key Facts

  • Haverford College students and alumni want Howard Lutnick's name removed from a campus library.
  • Lutnick is linked to Jeffrey Epstein, a known criminal.
  • Lutnick said he cut ties with Epstein in 2005.
  • Documents show Lutnick met Epstein on his Caribbean island in 2012.
  • Haverford College's president is reviewing the situation.
  • Lutnick has donated $65 million to Haverford College.
  • The Trump administration supports Lutnick.
  • Efforts to reach the college board chair for comments were unsuccessful.

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From London to Seoul, global leaders face legal trouble after scandals

From London to Seoul, global leaders face legal trouble after scandals

Summary

Leaders in various countries are facing legal issues tied to past scandals. Authorities arrested former Prince Andrew for alleged misconduct related to Jeffrey Epstein, and a South Korean court sentenced former President Yoon Suk Yeol to life for insurrection. Other leaders, like Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro, also face legal troubles.

Key Facts

  • Former Prince Andrew was arrested for alleged misconduct in public office linked to Jeffrey Epstein.
  • Andrew allegedly forwarded confidential trade documents to Epstein.
  • Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol received a life sentence for declaring martial law.
  • Yoon's martial law declaration in 2024 led to troop deployment and protests.
  • Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro got a 27-year prison sentence for attempting a coup.
  • Bolsonaro's supporters attacked government buildings after he made false claims about election tampering.
  • Poland issued an arrest warrant for ex-Deputy Justice Minister Marcin Romanowski over missing state funds.
  • Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is currently providing shelter to Romanowski.

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Single nasal spray vaccine could protect against all colds and flus, researchers say

Single nasal spray vaccine could protect against all colds and flus, researchers say

Summary

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a nasal spray vaccine that could protect against multiple respiratory infections, such as colds and flus. The vaccine has been tested on animals and prepares immune cells to react quickly to different infections. Human clinical trials are still needed to confirm its effectiveness.

Key Facts

  • A nasal spray vaccine could protect against colds, flus, and some bacterial infections.
  • The vaccine has been tested in animal studies, but human trials are still required.
  • This approach is different from traditional vaccines, which target specific infections.
  • It readies lung immune cells, called macrophages, to act quickly against infections.
  • The vaccine offers widespread protection and may even help reduce allergy symptoms.
  • The immunity effect observed in animal tests lasted for about three months.
  • Researchers are planning human trials to further test its effectiveness and safety.

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South Africa police arrest son of former Zimbabwe leader Robert Mugabe

South Africa police arrest son of former Zimbabwe leader Robert Mugabe

Summary

South African police arrested Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe, the youngest son of former Zimbabwe president Robert Mugabe, after a gardener was shot at his home. Mugabe and another man face attempted murder charges, while the injured employee remains in critical condition. The motive for the shooting is currently unknown.

Key Facts

  • Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe is the youngest son of Zimbabwe's former president Robert Mugabe.
  • He was arrested in South Africa following a shooting at his home where a gardener was injured.
  • Mugabe and another man face charges of attempted murder.
  • The gardener sustained a gunshot wound and is in critical condition.
  • Police have not yet determined the motive for the shooting.
  • Neither the suspects' names nor the details about the incident have been fully disclosed by authorities.
  • This event happened in a Johannesburg suburb.
  • Mugabe’s family has faced various legal issues in the past, involving both his brothers and mother.

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Veteran dissident who refused exile released

Veteran dissident who refused exile released

Summary

Belarus released opposition politician Mikola Statkevich after he spent more than five years in jail. Statkevich, who refused to go into exile, is now at home recovering from a stroke. The release was part of a deal where the US agreed to ease sanctions on Belarus in exchange for freeing prisoners.

Key Facts

  • Mikola Statkevich is a veteran opposition politician in Belarus.
  • He was jailed for more than five years after organizing protests in 2020-21.
  • Statkevich refused to leave Belarus during a US-brokered prisoner release agreement.
  • He is currently recovering from a stroke that affects his speech.
  • Belarusian authorities had imprisoned around 1,000 political prisoners.
  • The US agreed to ease sanctions on Belarusian airline Belavia as part of the prisoner release deal.
  • Belarus is a close ally of Russia and has been led by Alexander Lukashenko since 1994.

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Files reveal Epstein was offered chance to buy US Pentagon, FBI buildings

Files reveal Epstein was offered chance to buy US Pentagon, FBI buildings

Summary

Emails from the U.S. Department of Justice reveal that Jeffrey Epstein was given the chance to invest in a building near the Pentagon in 2016. This potential deal, valued at about $116 million, would have involved him becoming a landlord to the U.S. government. There is no proof that the deal went through.

Key Facts

  • Jeffrey Epstein was offered a chance to buy into a building near the Pentagon in 2016.
  • The property's proposed purchase price was approximately $116 million.
  • Ownership would have made Epstein a co-owner and landlord to the U.S. government.
  • There is no evidence that Epstein completed the transaction.
  • An FBI informant described Epstein as a Mossad agent with ties to Israel.
  • Epstein had connections to Ehud Barak, a former Prime Minister of Israel.
  • Epstein also had a separate proposal to invest in FBI office buildings.
  • David Stern forwarded the investment offer and had ties to the British royal family.

Source Verification

He told police his XL bullies were friendly – days later his mother-in-law was mauled to death

He told police his XL bullies were friendly – days later his mother-in-law was mauled to death

Summary

Ashley Warren claimed his XL bully dogs were friendly when police visited his home in Essex, UK. Days later, his mother-in-law, Esther Martin, was mauled to death by these dogs, resulting in Warren being the first person in the UK charged under new XL bully laws.

Key Facts

  • Ashley Warren told police his XL bully dogs were less vicious than poodles.
  • Ten days later, Warren's dogs killed his mother-in-law, Esther Martin.
  • Warren's ownership of the dogs became illegal without a special certificate two days before the attack.
  • Warren was filming in London during the attack, leaving Martin alone with the dogs.
  • Esther Martin had health issues, including arthritis, and could not defend herself against the dogs.
  • Warren was aware of the dogs' power, as seen in CCTV footage of him struggling to control one of them.
  • Warren was found guilty of owning the dog that killed Martin.
  • The attack occurred after a police visit where Warren made comments about the dogs being friendly.

Source Verification

Kenyan families demand return of loved ones recruited into Russian army

Kenyan families demand return of loved ones recruited into Russian army

Summary

Some Kenyans were allegedly tricked into joining the Russian army to fight in Ukraine. Families in Kenya are protesting to get their relatives back and want government action. A report suggests over 1,000 Kenyans were involved in this scam, allegedly assisted by certain officials.

Key Facts

  • More than 1,000 Kenyans were reportedly recruited to fight in Ukraine for Russia.
  • Families protested in Nairobi to demand help from the government for their relatives.
  • An intelligence report claims a network of rogue officials helped recruitment syndicates.
  • 89 Kenyans are currently on the frontline, while 39 are hospitalized and 28 are missing.
  • Some Kenyans believed they were going to Russia for jobs, like being security guards.
  • The Russian embassy denied illegal recruitment but said foreign citizens can join voluntarily.
  • Recruits initially traveled to Russia on tourist visas through various countries.
  • Kenya's Foreign Ministry announced that 27 Kenyans have been rescued from Russia.

Source Verification

Masked protesters arrested outside Trump’s Board of Peace meeting

Masked protesters arrested outside Trump’s Board of Peace meeting

Summary

Pro-Palestinian protesters demonstrated outside a Board of Peace event held by President Donald Trump in Washington, DC. Some protesters wore masks resembling Trump and other political figures, and police arrested several of them.

Key Facts

  • The protest took place in Washington, DC.
  • It occurred outside President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace meeting.
  • Protesters wore masks of Trump, Benjamin Netanyahu, and Marco Rubio.
  • The group shouted phrases like “Free Palestine.”
  • Police shoved and arrested several protesters.

Source Verification

Decades of international failure on Palestine

Decades of international failure on Palestine

Summary

President Donald Trump led the first meeting of the "Board of Peace" to address ongoing issues between Israel and Palestine. This meeting comes after many years without significant progress on Palestinian demands for an end to Israeli occupation.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump organized the first "Board of Peace" meeting.
  • The focus is on addressing Palestinian demands to end Israeli occupation.
  • There has been a long history of international inaction on these issues.
  • The meeting is an attempt to re-engage with the Israel-Palestine conflict.
  • The international community has faced criticism for not resolving these tensions sooner.

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Palestinians in Gaza say ‘Board of Peace’ will further occupation

Palestinians in Gaza say ‘Board of Peace’ will further occupation

Summary

President Donald Trump's "Board of Peace" held its first meeting. Many Palestinians in Gaza feel concerned that this board will let Israel continue its occupation of their land.

Key Facts

  • President Trump's "Board of Peace" had its first meeting.
  • The board aims to address issues related to Palestine and Israel.
  • Many Palestinians in Gaza believe the board could support further occupation by Israel.
  • The term "occupation" refers to Israel's control over some Palestinian territories.
  • The board's creation has sparked doubt and concern among Palestinians in Gaza.

Source Verification

Trump's Board of Peace members pledge $7bn in Gaza relief

Trump's Board of Peace members pledge $7bn in Gaza relief

Summary

President Donald Trump announced that several countries have pledged over $7 billion for a Gaza relief package through his Board of Peace initiative. This organization aims to help rebuild Gaza and promote a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, though it has faced criticism for potentially sidelining the UN. The pledged funds are part of broader international efforts to address the aftermath of recent conflicts in the region.

Key Facts

  • President Trump announced a pledge of over $7 billion for Gaza relief from countries part of the Board of Peace.
  • The UN estimates that damage in Gaza costs $70 billion.
  • The Board of Peace aims to support a ceasefire and Gaza's reconstruction.
  • Some Western allies have refused to join the board, fearing it might bypass the UN.
  • Israel and the US agreed on no reconstruction in Gaza without demilitarization.
  • The war started with a Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023.
  • Over 71,550 people have died in the conflict, according to Gaza's health ministry.
  • Countries contributing to the relief include Kazakhstan, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, among others.

Source Verification

What we learned from the first trailer for the new Peaky Blinders film

What we learned from the first trailer for the new Peaky Blinders film

Summary

The trailer for the new film "The Immortal Man," which continues the "Peaky Blinders" story, has been released. Cillian Murphy returns as Tommy Shelby, who is forced to confront his past and make tough choices during World War II. The film introduces new characters and explores the challenges in Shelby's family and gang.

Key Facts

  • The film's title is "The Immortal Man" and is a continuation of the "Peaky Blinders" series.
  • Cillian Murphy returns as Tommy Shelby, a gang leader from Birmingham.
  • The story is set in 1940, during World War II.
  • New cast members include Barry Keoghan, Rebecca Ferguson, and Tim Roth.
  • Barry Keoghan plays Duke Shelby, Tommy’s son, who is part of the gang.
  • The storyline involves Tommy Shelby dealing with personal and family issues.
  • A character played by Tim Roth asks Duke Shelby to consider betraying England for Germany.
  • The soundtrack includes music by Grian Chatten from the band Fontaines DC.

Source Verification

Trump announces billions of dollars in Gaza aid at Board of Peace meeting

Trump announces billions of dollars in Gaza aid at Board of Peace meeting

Summary

President Donald Trump announced that nine countries pledged $7 billion for Gaza's reconstruction at a Board of Peace meeting. The U.S. plans to contribute $10 billion, and five countries agreed to send troops as part of a stabilizing force for Gaza. The funds are part of a larger effort to restore peace and stability in the Palestinian region.

Key Facts

  • Trump said nine countries pledged $7 billion for Gaza reconstruction.
  • The U.S. will contribute $10 billion to the Board of Peace.
  • Five countries, including Indonesia and Morocco, will send troops to a stabilization force in Gaza.
  • Indonesia pledged to send up to 8,000 troops.
  • Trump launched the Board of Peace to help resolve conflicts, starting with Gaza.
  • Criticism arose because the Board includes Israeli representatives but not Palestinians.
  • The plan includes building a new police force in Gaza.
  • More than 40 countries and the EU attended the meeting, with some participating as observers.

Source Verification

US-Iran tension: Why Tehran may choose confrontation over 'surrender'

US-Iran tension: Why Tehran may choose confrontation over 'surrender'

Summary

The U.S. is increasing its military presence near Iran, with aircraft carriers moving into the region. This buildup suggests possible preparation for military action if talks between the U.S. and Iran remain stalled. Iran views U.S. demands as a threat to its core security interests.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. has moved the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R Ford aircraft carriers near Iranian waters.
  • These military moves could be interpreted as preparation for potential conflict.
  • U.S. demands include stopping uranium enrichment and limiting ballistic missile ranges.
  • Iran considers these demands as threats to its fundamental security policies.
  • Iran has spent years developing a network called the "Axis of Resistance" to protect its interests.
  • The Iranian leadership believes accepting U.S. terms might be more dangerous than a potential conflict.
  • Iran's nuclear program, while claimed to be peaceful, holds significant strategic importance.
  • Any conflict could target Iran's leadership and impact regional stability.

Source Verification

Microsoft error sees confidential emails exposed to AI tool Copilot

Microsoft error sees confidential emails exposed to AI tool Copilot

Summary

Microsoft admitted that its AI assistant, Copilot, accidentally accessed some users' confidential emails. The issue involved the tool summarizing messages stored as drafts or sent items, even those marked as confidential. Microsoft has released an update to fix the problem and stated no unauthorized information access happened.

Key Facts

  • Microsoft Copilot is an AI tool used in programs like Outlook and Teams to help with tasks like summarizing messages.
  • The error allowed Copilot to access and summarize confidential emails by mistake.
  • Microsoft released an update to fix this issue worldwide.
  • The problem involved emails in users' drafts and sent folders, despite them being confidential.
  • Microsoft assured that no unauthorized individuals accessed sensitive information.
  • Experts warn of risks when rapidly deploying AI features.
  • The error was first reported by tech news outlet Bleeping Computer.
  • Some experts suggest that data leaks are likely as AI tools develop quickly.

Source Verification

Andrew investigation could be about more than Epstein files

Andrew investigation could be about more than Epstein files

Summary

British police have arrested Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, focusing on his past interactions with Jeffrey Epstein. The investigation began due to emails from Andrew to Epstein found in released files. These emails suggest Andrew might have shared sensitive information with Epstein.

Key Facts

  • Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested Thursday morning by UK police.
  • The arrest is linked to information found in a large release of Epstein-related files.
  • Emails show Andrew forwarding government reports to Jeffrey Epstein soon after a government-funded trip.
  • In December 2010, Andrew allegedly emailed Epstein details about investment opportunities in Afghanistan.
  • Thames Valley Police lead the investigation, supported by the National Crime Agency.
  • The investigation does not relate to Andrew's previous legal issues with Virginia Giuffre.
  • Andrew has not been charged with any crime, and he denies any wrongdoing.
  • Police are gathering more evidence before deciding on further legal action.

Source Verification

Les Wexner: How the billionaire enabled Jeffrey Epstein’s rise

Les Wexner: How the billionaire enabled Jeffrey Epstein’s rise

Summary

Billionaire Leslie Wexner answered questions about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein during a session with U.S. lawmakers. Wexner, who founded the company behind Victoria's Secret, gave Epstein substantial control over his finances, which helped Epstein gain significant influence. Recently released documents have provided more details about their financial connections.

Key Facts

  • U.S. lawmakers questioned Leslie Wexner about his ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
  • The House Oversight Committee members traveled to Ohio for this session.
  • Wexner admitted he was deceived by Epstein, whom he now calls a con man.
  • Epstein met Wexner in the mid-1980s and later got full control over some of Wexner’s finances.
  • Wexner gave Epstein power of attorney, letting him handle money and properties.
  • Documents from the Justice Department highlight financial deals between Wexner and Epstein.
  • Epstein used his connection with Wexner to gain status and become influential.

Source Verification

An unprecedented moment for the UK - and a former prince

An unprecedented moment for the UK - and a former prince

Summary

Police have arrested Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, a former senior member of the UK's Royal Family, on suspicion of misconduct in public office related to his past role as a trade representative. King Charles made a statement emphasizing that the law must proceed without interference. The arrest is connected to allegations about Andrew's ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

Key Facts

  • Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, a former senior royal, was arrested in the UK.
  • He is accused of misconduct in public office while he was a trade representative from 2001 to 2011.
  • The arrest is linked to allegations of sharing official documents with Jeffrey Epstein.
  • King Charles stated that the legal process should continue without royal protection.
  • Andrew has denied any wrongdoing related to Epstein.
  • Andrew is still in police custody following his arrest.
  • The arrest occurred on Andrew's 66th birthday.
  • Andrew has previously faced public and official consequences due to his Epstein associations, including losing royal titles and roles.

Source Verification

The quiet conquest of the West Bank and the death of the Oslo Accords

The quiet conquest of the West Bank and the death of the Oslo Accords

Summary

Israel's government has approved a plan to claim Palestinian lands in the West Bank as state land. This plan involves land registration in Area C, aiming to shift it from military to civilian control under Israel. The process highlights a change in strategy towards administrative means for land annexation.

Key Facts

  • Israel's cabinet approved a plan to claim lands in the West Bank as state land.
  • The plan is supported by key Israeli leaders, including Finance Minister Smotrich.
  • The government is allocating nearly $79 million for the land registration project.
  • The land registration process in the West Bank had been frozen since 1967.
  • Area C of the West Bank, over 62% of the territory, is the main focus of the plan.
  • The plan involves shifting Area C from military to civilian governance.
  • Recent Israeli measures reduce oversight on land purchases for settlers.

Source Verification