The Actual News

Neutral summaries of your favorite news sources — just the facts.

Latest News

Recent developments and breaking news

From menacing threats to comical misnomers: Donald Trump’s unlikely tale of love and darkness at Nato

From menacing threats to comical misnomers: Donald Trump’s unlikely tale of love and darkness at Nato

July 08, 2026 • World • Guardian World

Summary

President Donald Trump attended the NATO summit, expressing surprise praise for the alliance despite earlier criticisms. He also discussed ongoing tensions with Iran, stating that a ceasefire recently agreed upon is effectively over due to Iranian attacks, and emphasized the goal of preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

Key Facts

  • President Trump called the NATO meeting positive, highlighting unity among member countries.
  • Earlier, he had complained about NATO’s support on issues like the Iran conflict and defense spending.
  • Trump praised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and mentioned progress toward ending the Ukraine-Russia war.
  • US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said European leaders credited Trump with helping NATO progress.
  • Trump declared that Iran violated a recent ceasefire agreement by attacking vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • He recalled past Iranian actions against US forces, reinforcing US hostility toward Iran.
  • Trump stated the new goal is Iran’s denuclearization and suggested future US military strikes might occur.
  • Some of Trump’s statements included incorrect names or mixed-up words during his remarks.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Guardian World Guardian US
Graham Platner Signals Decision on Maine Senate Race Coming Within Days

Graham Platner Signals Decision on Maine Senate Race Coming Within Days

July 08, 2026 • Us • Newsweek

Summary

Graham Platner may decide soon whether to stay in Maine’s U.S. Senate race after sexual assault accusations were made against him. His campaign is asking supporters for input before making a choice, while the Maine Democratic Party plans how to select a new candidate if he withdraws.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner is a Democratic candidate in Maine’s U.S. Senate race.
  • He faces sexual assault allegations from two women, which he denies.
  • Platner’s campaign started a two-day process to gather supporters’ opinions on his future in the race.
  • Senator Bernie Sanders advised Platner to step aside because of the allegations.
  • Maine law allows the Democratic Party to replace a nominee by July 13 if they withdraw.
  • The party must pick a new candidate by July 27 if needed.
  • Maine Democratic Party leaders say they will create a fair process to choose a replacement.
  • Platner’s team denies trying to influence the party’s replacement decision.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Newsweek
UK has ‘no future’ if it fails to act on ecosystem collapse threatening national security

UK has ‘no future’ if it fails to act on ecosystem collapse threatening national security

July 08, 2026 • World • Guardian World

Summary

UK parliament members have called for the full release of a government report warning that the collapse of ecosystems abroad could cause severe problems for the UK’s national security. The report, kept mostly secret, predicts serious food shortages, political instability, and possible conflict due to environmental damage and climate change.

Key Facts

  • A secret UK intelligence report says ecosystem collapse overseas threatens UK national security.
  • The government has only shared a limited, redacted version of the report despite demands for full publication.
  • The report warns of food shortages in the UK within five years due to environmental damage and climate change.
  • MPs say the government is ignoring links between climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and security risks.
  • There are concerns that cuts to UK overseas aid and climate budgets worsen the problem.
  • The Amazon rainforest is mentioned as a key ecosystem at risk of reaching a tipping point.
  • Parliament members urge urgent government action to protect ecosystems and address the crisis.
  • The report involves the joint intelligence committee and other government departments.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Guardian World
Israeli air strikes in Gaza kill eight, including two children

Israeli air strikes in Gaza kill eight, including two children

July 08, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Israeli air strikes in Gaza killed at least eight people, including two children, according to Palestinian health officials. These attacks happened despite a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas brokered by the United States in October 2023.

Key Facts

  • At least eight people died in recent Israeli air strikes in Gaza, including children aged 6 and 10.
  • The attacks struck locations such as near a school, a displaced persons’ tent, and a vehicle.
  • Twelve people were wounded in these air strike incidents.
  • The Israeli military said it targeted fighters but did not confirm civilian casualties.
  • Since the ceasefire in October 2023, over 1,000 people have been killed and more than 3,400 injured due to Israeli actions, according to Gaza health officials.
  • The overall death toll in Gaza from the conflict has reached over 73,000 with more than 173,000 injuries.
  • Israel has increased its control over Gaza territory by about 11% beyond agreed boundaries from the ceasefire.
  • The UN reports worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza, including nearly 9,300 chickenpox cases in overcrowded health facilities.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Al Jazeera
Fed saw "upside risks" to inflation, disagreed on rate path

Fed saw "upside risks" to inflation, disagreed on rate path

July 08, 2026 • Business • Axios

Summary

Federal Reserve officials had different views on the future of the U.S. economy and inflation at their recent meeting. While they agreed to keep interest rates the same for now, some members believe rate increases might be needed if inflation stays high due to factors like strong demand from AI development and global events.

Key Facts

  • Federal Reserve officials see various possible future paths for the economy and inflation.
  • All members agreed to keep interest rates unchanged at the last meeting.
  • Some officials want to raise rates soon because inflation risks remain high.
  • Others expect inflation to ease as energy prices and tariffs decline.
  • Inflation may stay above the Fed's 2% target due to strong demand related to AI and global conflicts.
  • Officials are split on whether interest rates will rise or fall by the end of the year.
  • Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh did not give a clear forecast or guidance on future rate changes.
  • The Fed sees risks to inflation as more likely to increase rather than decrease for now.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Axios
Trump says he ‘may be gone’ as he declares himself Iran’s No. 1 target

Trump says he ‘may be gone’ as he declares himself Iran’s No. 1 target

July 08, 2026 • Us • Al Jazeera

Summary

President Donald Trump said he is Iran’s main target and mentioned that the US has killed many Iranian leaders before. He also expressed doubt about making a deal with Iran and suggested continuing efforts against the country.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump called himself Iran’s “No. 1 target.”
  • He said the US has repeatedly eliminated Iranian leaders in the past.
  • Trump is uncertain about making a deal with Iran.
  • He suggested finishing the job, implying further actions against Iran.
  • The statements highlight ongoing tensions between the US and Iran.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Al Jazeera
Former judge avoids prison after being convicted of obstructing immigration agents

Former judge avoids prison after being convicted of obstructing immigration agents

July 08, 2026 • Us • ABC News

Summary

Hannah Dugan, a former Wisconsin judge convicted of obstructing federal immigration agents, was sentenced to pay a $5,000 fine but did not receive prison time. The judge in the case said prison was not necessary, noting Dugan’s past public service and that she made a poor decision in the moment.

Key Facts

  • Hannah Dugan was found guilty of felony obstruction related to immigration agents.
  • She was accused of blocking federal immigration officials and hiding an undocumented man at a courthouse.
  • A jury convicted her of obstruction but acquitted her of concealing the undocumented immigrant.
  • She resigned from her judge position after the conviction.
  • U.S. District Judge Lynn Adelman sentenced Dugan to a $5,000 fine and no prison time.
  • Dugan faced a maximum prison term of five years but was spared jail.
  • The judge described Dugan as a dedicated public servant who made a bad choice.
  • Prosecutors wanted a strong sentence, citing harm to justice when a judge obstructs legal processes.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

ABC News
Judge orders Trump's $5m damages be released to E Jean Carroll

Judge orders Trump's $5m damages be released to E Jean Carroll

July 08, 2026 • Us • BBC US

Summary

A judge has ordered that President Donald Trump pay over $5 million to writer E Jean Carroll. This money comes from a civil case where Trump was found responsible for sexually abusing and defaming her, and the funds were held in a court account during appeals.

Key Facts

  • Judge Lewis Kaplan ordered the release of more than $5 million owed to E Jean Carroll.
  • The money was held in a court-controlled account after Trump deposited it following the ruling.
  • President Trump was found liable for sexually abusing Carroll in the 1990s and defaming her later.
  • Carroll won the damages in a 2023 New York jury trial.
  • Trump denied the allegations and tried to delay payment by seeking Supreme Court review.
  • A federal appeals court upheld the original verdict and rejected Trump's request for a new trial.
  • Trump’s legal team criticized the case as politically motivated but did not stop the release order.
  • Carroll is an 82-year-old former magazine columnist who claimed the abuse happened in a Manhattan department store.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

BBC US BBC Top Stories
Trump switches back to flying on older Air Force One for England trip instead of new Qatari jet

Trump switches back to flying on older Air Force One for England trip instead of new Qatari jet

July 08, 2026 • World • Guardian World

Summary

President Donald Trump will fly from Turkey to England on an older Air Force One jet instead of the new, $400 million plane given to the U.S. by Qatar. He said the new plane will be displayed at a U.S. military base in the U.K. so soldiers can see it.

Key Facts

  • Trump traveled to Turkey on a new Air Force One plane gifted by Qatar last year.
  • For the trip from Turkey to England, Trump chose the older Air Force One jet.
  • Trump said the new plane is being sent to U.K. bases for military personnel to tour it.
  • Reporters asked if security concerns about Iran influenced the decision, but Trump did not confirm this.
  • Trump said he believes he is a high-value target for Iran and spoke about the risks to his life.
  • The new plane sparked criticism over security and possible conflicts of interest when accepted.
  • U.S.-Iran tensions were high, with recent U.S. military strikes on Iranian targets and sanctions on Iranian oil.
  • Trump declared the ceasefire with Iran over during the NATO summit in Turkey.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Guardian World Guardian US
Parents of football player who died speak out after charges filed against ex-coach

Parents of football player who died speak out after charges filed against ex-coach

July 08, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

The parents of Calvin "C.J." Dickey Jr., a football player who died after a 2024 practice at Bucknell University, spoke after criminal charges were filed against former coach Mark Kulbis. Kulbis faces charges including aggravated hazing and involuntary manslaughter for making Dickey Jr. do extreme workouts despite knowing about his sickle-cell trait condition.

Key Facts

  • Mark Kulbis, former Bucknell strength and conditioning coach, is charged with felony aggravated hazing and misdemeanor involuntary manslaughter, reckless endangerment, and hazing.
  • Calvin "C.J." Dickey Jr. died after a football practice where he was made to do 100 "up-downs" despite struggling visibly during drills.
  • Dickey Jr. had sickle-cell trait, a condition that makes intense exercise more risky, which the coach knew about before the workout.
  • NCAA rules require all new athletes to be tested for sickle-cell trait and to have proper precautions during exercise.
  • The coach only called for help after Dickey Jr. passed out, and the player died two days later in the hospital.
  • Kulbis left Bucknell about six months after the death, and his lawyer denies responsibility.
  • The Dickey family formed the C.J. Dickey Foundation to raise awareness about sickle-cell trait and filed a civil lawsuit against Bucknell University.
  • The family hopes the case will lead to better education and safety in sports programs to prevent similar tragedies.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

CBS News
Trump warms up to Ukraine, gets angry with Iran: Five takeaways from the NATO summit

Trump warms up to Ukraine, gets angry with Iran: Five takeaways from the NATO summit

July 08, 2026 • World • The Hill

Summary

President Donald Trump and other NATO leaders met in Ankara, Turkey, for a summit where Trump approved Ukraine producing Patriot missile interceptors to help in its conflict with Russia. He also expressed strong criticism toward Iran during the event.

Key Facts

  • The NATO summit took place in Ankara, Turkey.
  • President Trump supported Ukraine manufacturing Patriot missile interceptors.
  • This decision aids Ukraine in its ongoing war with Russia.
  • NATO members view the support for Ukraine positively.
  • President Trump strongly criticized Iran during the summit.
  • The meeting involved leaders from NATO member countries.
  • The summit aimed to discuss security and alliance cooperation.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

The Hill
Utility watchdog warns of rising water rates as regulators consider requests

Utility watchdog warns of rising water rates as regulators consider requests

July 08, 2026 • Business • AP News

Summary

Illinois’ two largest private water companies, Illinois American Water and Aqua Illinois, are asking regulators to approve significant rate increases and a merger between their parent companies. The Illinois Commerce Commission is reviewing these requests while a consumer group warns the merger could reduce competition and lead to higher prices without service improvement.

Key Facts

  • Illinois American Water wants to raise rates by $142 million, increasing water bills by about $14 and wastewater bills by about $28 per month for typical customers.
  • Aqua Illinois has requested a $26.5 million rate increase, which would raise combined water and wastewater bills by about $23 per month.
  • The two companies’ parent firms, American Water and Essential Utilities, are seeking approval for a merger that would combine the largest private water services in Illinois.
  • The Citizens Utility Board (CUB), a consumer watchdog, opposes the merger, citing past complaints about high bills and poor service.
  • If the merger is approved, over 99.99% of Illinois private water utility customers would be served by American Water and its affiliates.
  • The requested rate hikes are intended to pay for infrastructure upgrades, replacing lead service lines, and improving cybersecurity.
  • Aqua Illinois customers could see rate increases starting in April 2027, with some bills rising by up to nearly 30%.
  • The merger, if approved, is expected to be finalized by early 2027.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

AP News
Fed minutes: Officials deeply divided over future path of US inflation

Fed minutes: Officials deeply divided over future path of US inflation

July 08, 2026 • Business • AP News

Summary

The Federal Reserve’s committee decided to keep interest rates the same last month but showed disagreement about future inflation. Some officials think inflation will drop soon, while others worry new technology investments could keep prices high.

Key Facts

  • The Federal Reserve kept its key interest rate at 3.6% in the latest meeting.
  • There are 19 officials on the rate-setting committee, with differing views about inflation.
  • Some officials believe inflation will go down as gas prices drop and tariffs fade.
  • Others worry large spending on artificial intelligence and tech products may keep inflation high.
  • Kevin Warsh became the new Federal Reserve Chair, appointed by President Donald Trump.
  • Jerome Powell, the previous Chair, remains on the committee as a Fed governor until 2028.
  • President Trump had criticized Powell for not lowering borrowing costs fast enough.
  • The minutes show no immediate move by Warsh to cut interest rates.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

AP News
Lebanese singer-turned-militant released on bail as a probe into 2013 clashes continues

Lebanese singer-turned-militant released on bail as a probe into 2013 clashes continues

July 08, 2026 • World • AP News

Summary

Lebanese pop singer Fadel Shaker, who became involved in militancy, was released on bail after months in jail. He faces ongoing investigations related to 2013 clashes between Sunni militants and the Lebanese army near Sidon.

Key Facts

  • Fadel Shaker surrendered to Lebanese military intelligence in October after 12 years as a fugitive.
  • He was sentenced to 22 years in prison in 2020 for supporting a terrorist group in 2013 clashes.
  • Shaker paid 500 million Lebanese pounds (about $5,500) for his release on bail.
  • He faces charges including membership in an armed group, funding armed groups, and money laundering.
  • The 2013 clashes near Sidon involved Sunni militants and Lebanese army soldiers, causing deaths and deepening sectarian tensions.
  • Shaker was close to Sunni cleric Ahmed al-Assir, who was sentenced to death for his role in the clashes.
  • Shaker denies participating in the clashes but a video shows him taunting the military during the event.
  • After release, Shaker moved to a rented apartment in Beirut and the legal case is still ongoing.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

AP News
On La Guaira’s beaches, Venezuela quake survivors improvise showers and toilets amid water shortages

On La Guaira’s beaches, Venezuela quake survivors improvise showers and toilets amid water shortages

July 08, 2026 • World • AP News

Summary

Thousands of people in La Guaira, Venezuela, are struggling to get clean water and proper toilets after earthquakes damaged many buildings and water tanks. Relief groups, including the U.S., are providing food, water, and hygiene supplies to help those living in temporary shelters or outside.

Key Facts

  • Strong earthquakes hit Venezuela on June 24, causing 3,685 deaths.
  • About 190 buildings collapsed, and 856 were damaged in the affected area.
  • Many families lost their water storage tanks, making it hard to get water.
  • Some communities had water service only once a month or less even before the earthquakes.
  • People are using beaches for showers and toilets due to lack of facilities.
  • The U.S. is sending humanitarian aid with food, water, and hygiene kits.
  • Relief workers distributed aid boxes near the beach in Maiquetía, home to the country’s main airport.
  • Humanitarian groups say better living conditions are needed to stop disease from spreading.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

AP News
Takeaways: Trump leaves NATO summit declaring ‘a lot of love’ with allies after a rocky start

Takeaways: Trump leaves NATO summit declaring ‘a lot of love’ with allies after a rocky start

July 08, 2026 • World • AP News

Summary

At the NATO summit in Ankara, President Donald Trump and the other leaders renewed their commitment to defend each other if attacked, despite previous tensions. Trump described the summit as a success and highlighted unity among the allies.

Key Facts

  • The NATO summit took place in Ankara, Turkey, on July 7-8, 2026.
  • Leaders confirmed their commitment to Article 5, meaning an attack on one ally is an attack on all.
  • President Trump said there was “a lot of love” and unity among the leaders during the summit.
  • NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said allies welcomed President Trump’s leadership.
  • Trump authorized U.S. military strikes on Iran shortly after the summit dinner.
  • Rutte did not rule out a future NATO role in the conflict with Iran, although Iran is outside NATO territory.
  • The U.S. will license its Patriot air defense system technology to allies.
  • The summit saw discussions about defense and cooperation amid some past disagreements, including Trump’s interest in Greenland.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

AP News
DOGE shuts down after controversial run with Elon Musk

DOGE shuts down after controversial run with Elon Musk

July 08, 2026 • Business • CBS News

Summary

DOGE, a government agency previously led by Elon Musk, is closing down after ending many public contracts and laying off numerous federal workers. The agency had a controversial period under Musk’s leadership.

Key Facts

  • DOGE was a government agency.
  • Elon Musk once led DOGE.
  • The agency canceled billions of dollars in public contracts.
  • Many federal employees lost their jobs due to DOGE’s actions.
  • DOGE is now shutting down.
  • The closure follows a controversial time under Musk’s management.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

CBS News
Former Wisconsin judge spared prison for ushering Mexican immigrant away from ICE agents

Former Wisconsin judge spared prison for ushering Mexican immigrant away from ICE agents

July 08, 2026 • Us • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Former Wisconsin Judge Hannah Dugan was fined $5,000 instead of being sent to prison after she helped a Mexican immigrant avoid U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents by escorting them out of her courtroom. She was convicted of felony obstruction but avoided jail due to her mostly good record.

Key Facts

  • Hannah Dugan is a former Wisconsin judge who resigned in January after facing impeachment threats.
  • She was convicted in December of felony obstruction for helping a Mexican immigrant evade ICE agents.
  • A federal judge fined her $5,000 and did not give her prison time.
  • Dugan had been a Milwaukee County circuit judge for nine years.
  • Her lawyers said the Trump administration targeted her to make judges cooperate with ICE’s immigrant enforcement.
  • Republican lawmakers called her an "activist judge" and pushed for her impeachment.
  • Republican Congressman Tom Tiffany, a Trump supporter, publicly demanded she be jailed after her conviction.
  • Dugan said her prosecution threatened the independence of the judiciary.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

PBS NewsHour
Baby Rose Is Turning Yearning Into a Living Archive

Baby Rose Is Turning Yearning Into a Living Archive

July 08, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

Baby Rose, a singer and songwriter from Washington, D.C., grew up surrounded by music from her family. Her latest album, YEARNALISM, explores themes of desire and emotion through songs inspired by her own experiences and group listening sessions.

Key Facts

  • Baby Rose was raised in a musical family with influences from funk, soul, and hip-hop.
  • She received her first piano at age 9, which became a key part of her music and personal comfort.
  • Early in her career, she worked with hip-hop sampling and appreciated imperfections in sounds.
  • She won her first Grammy for work on Leon Thomas’s album MUTT.
  • Her album YEARNALISM focuses on feelings like forgiveness, conflict, and yearning.
  • YEARNALISM was influenced by listening groups called Yearners Anonymous, which are like group therapy sessions.
  • Baby Rose aims to preserve music as a way to keep memories and traditions alive.
  • She believes that yearning is a natural part of being alive and an important theme in her music.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Newsweek
Maine Democratic Party accuses Platner team of interfering with process to pick his replacement

Maine Democratic Party accuses Platner team of interfering with process to pick his replacement

July 08, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

The Maine Democratic Party says the team of Senate candidate Graham Platner is trying to interfere with choosing a new candidate if Platner quits. Pressure is growing on Platner to end his campaign after a former girlfriend accused him of sexual assault.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner is running for the Maine Senate.
  • A former girlfriend has accused Platner of sexual assault.
  • There is pressure on Platner to stop his campaign because of this accusation.
  • The Maine Democratic Party is concerned about the fairness of the process to pick a replacement candidate.
  • The party accuses Platner’s team of trying to influence or interfere with that replacement process.
  • The situation is currently making news and causing political tension in Maine.
  • CBS News reported on this story and shared updates.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

CBS News
Save articles & personalize your feed — Create a free account