The Actual News - Just the Facts

EU introduces €3 customs charge on small parcels to curb cheap Chinese imports

June 29, 2026 • Business • Guardian World

Summary

The European Commission will start charging a €3 customs fee on small parcels valued under €150 from non-EU countries to reduce cheap imports from China. This move aims to protect European shops and jobs by addressing the large increase in low-cost goods entering Europe without customs charges.

Key Facts

Consumers could previously buy goods under €150 without paying customs fees due to a "de minimis" exemption.
Starting Wednesday, a €3 customs charge applies to all parcels under €150 from outside the EU.
The number of low-value parcels arriving in the EU is expected to rise from 1.3 billion in 2022 to 5.9 billion by 2025.
About 90% of these parcels come from China, including products from companies like Shein and Temu.
Many imported products, especially cosmetics, toys, and personal protective equipment, fail to meet EU safety laws.
EU officials hope the customs charge will discourage very low-value purchases and create fairer conditions for European retailers.
Shein is adapting by opening stores and distribution centers within Europe, possibly to avoid the new fee.
The UK plans to introduce similar import charges on small parcels starting in October 2028.

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Guardian World Guardian Business

First Thing: Mamdani says socialist allies offer ‘national message’ to US

June 29, 2026 • Us • Guardian US

Summary

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and several Democratic socialist allies won key primary elections with a message focused on helping working Americans. Some moderate Democrats responded by distancing themselves from socialism, emphasizing they support capitalism. Separately, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin urged immigrants with temporary protected status to apply for permanent residency or return to their home countries following a Supreme Court ruling.

Key Facts

Zohran Mamdani, NYC mayor, and his Democratic socialist allies won Democratic nominations in New York congressional and state legislature races.
Mamdani said their message addresses the daily struggles of working Americans and reflects a national crisis.
Fifteen moderate Democrats in the U.S. House issued a letter saying they support capitalism, not socialism, responding to Mamdani’s group without naming them.
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin told migrants with temporary protected status (TPS) to seek permanent residency or leave the U.S.
A Supreme Court decision ended TPS protections for about 350,000 Haitian and 6,000 Syrian immigrants.
TPS was originally granted to Haitians after the 2010 earthquake and Syrians because of civil war starting in 2012.
The government plans to assist migrants returning to their countries with a plane ticket and $2,100 to help them restart.
The article also mentions recent earthquakes in Venezuela and rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran, but the main focus is on U.S. political and immigration news.

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Guardian US

Trump officials to slash public input on fossil fuel drilling on federal lands

June 29, 2026 • Us • Guardian US

Summary

President Donald Trump’s administration plans to reduce the time the public has to comment on oil and gas drilling projects on federal lands. The changes would also lower fees that companies must pay for cleaning up drilling sites and allow more methane pollution.

Key Facts

The Trump administration wants to cut public comment periods on fossil fuel leasing from about 90 days to just 10 days.
Currently, there are multiple stages where the public can give input, including 30 days before lease sales and a 30-day protest period.
The new rules would remove early public input stages and shorten the protest period, limiting people’s ability to raise environmental concerns.
Companies would pay lower fees for future cleanup costs related to drilling on federal lands.
The proposal could let companies release more methane, a gas that traps heat and causes global warming.
The Bureau of Land Management would no longer have to assess if leasing land conflicts with wildlife habitat and other resources.
Interior Department officials say the changes will speed up energy development and reduce regulatory delays.
Environmental groups warn that cutting public input will undermine good decision-making and could increase conflicts and costs over time.

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Guardian US

New legal precedent could turn social media into open child pornography marketplaces

June 29, 2026 • Technology • The Hill

Summary

A new legal case is raising questions about whether social media platforms should be responsible if illegal child abuse material is shared on their services. The case involves a 13-year-old boy who was targeted through Snapchat by someone pretending to be a girl.

Key Facts

Social media platforms may face legal challenges over child sexual abuse material shared by users.
The case involves a 13-year-old boy, called John Doe, who was approached on Snapchat.
The person contacting the boy was not real but an online trick or deception.
The legal outcome could affect how social media sites monitor and control harmful content.
This situation highlights risks children face using mainstream social media apps.
The discussion reflects growing concerns about online safety for minors.
There is debate about how much responsibility social media companies should have.
The case may set a precedent that changes current internet platform laws.

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The Hill

France's 2027 presidential election: Can the far-right National Rally win without Le Pen?

June 29, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

France's far-right National Rally party is preparing for the 2027 presidential election but has not chosen a candidate yet. Marine Le Pen, the party leader, is banned from running due to a legal conviction and is appealing, while her successor Jordan Bardella, a young party president, is becoming the main candidate.

Key Facts

The National Rally (RN) is a major far-right party in France, formerly known as the National Front.
Marine Le Pen has run for president twice but lost to Emmanuel Macron.
Le Pen was convicted in 2025 of embezzling funds and banned from office for five years.
She has appealed the court decision, with a ruling expected on July 7, 2026.
Jordan Bardella, 30 years old, became RN leader in 2022 and is popular with younger voters via social media.
Bardella led the RN to a big win in the 2024 European elections and is polling well for the presidential race.
Some experts doubt Bardella’s experience and infrastructure to win the presidency.
If elected, Bardella would be France’s youngest president since Napoleon.

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France24

‘A concession to Zelenskyy’s ultimatum’: Ukraine’s triumph over Belarus

June 29, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Ukraine asked Belarus to shut down four relay stations that help Russia guide drone attacks on Ukraine. Belarus has stopped using these stations, which Ukraine says is a result of its strong request.

Key Facts

Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy demanded Belarus stop using four relay stations that help Russian drones attack Ukraine.
The relay stations are located near the Ukraine-Belarus border and make Russian drone signals stronger and more precise.
Belarusian President Aleksander Lukashenko allowed Russia to use these stations but later shut them down.
Zelenskyy gave Belarus one week to remove the relay stations and warned Ukraine would act if Belarus did not comply.
Ukraine has the military capability to strike Belarus if needed because Belarus has weak air defenses.
Lukashenko threatened possible retaliation by targeting the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant near the border.
The last Russian drone crossed from Belarus into Ukraine recently, confirming the relay stations have stopped working.
Analysts say Ukraine’s demand and threat may open new talks with Belarus, possibly changing Belarus’s role in the conflict.

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Al Jazeera

Trump Impeachment Likely if Democrats Win Midterms, Wilbur Ross Warns

June 29, 2026 • Us • Newsweek

Summary

Wilbur Ross, former commerce secretary under President Trump, said if Democrats win control of the House in the midterm elections, they will likely impeach President Trump again. He added that gaining the Senate too would increase the chance of conviction, which would disrupt President Trump’s plans.

Key Facts

Wilbur Ross served as commerce secretary during President Trump’s first term.
Ross warned that Democrats would move to impeach President Trump if they win the House in November.
Ross said Democratic control of the Senate could lead to President Trump’s conviction.
President Trump was impeached twice during his first term but was acquitted by the Senate both times.
Some Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, also warned of impeachment risks if they lose the House.
Certain Democrats have tried to start impeachment proceedings but have not gained enough support.
The Democratic Party’s focus on impeachment seems to change depending on political events and timing before the midterms.
Control of Congress will affect the progress of President Trump’s legislative agenda.

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Newsweek

Nigerians return home after fleeing xenophobic attacks in South Africa

June 29, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Nigerians are coming back to their country after experiencing violent attacks and harassment in South Africa. Many lost family members and jobs due to these xenophobic attacks.

Key Facts

Nigerians fled South Africa because of xenophobic violence.
The violence included deadly attacks and harassment.
People lost their loved ones during the attacks.
Many Nigerians also lost their jobs and means of income.
The return is taking place through organized efforts.
Ahmed Idris reported on the situation from Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
Xenophobia means fear or hatred of foreigners.
The attacks targeted Nigerians living in South Africa.

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Al Jazeera

‘Invasion of Washington’ UFO tape may surface as lawmakers push release

June 29, 2026 • World • The Hill

Summary

A tape may exist of a 1952 meeting where Air Force officials and scientists discussed UFOs. Lawmakers are asking for the tape to be released to the public.

Key Facts

The tape is said to record a UFO briefing from 1952.
Air Force officials and scientists took part in this meeting.
The discussion focused on unidentified flying objects (UFOs).
Lawmakers want the government to make the tape public.
This request is part of a broader interest in UFO information.
The tape has not yet been confirmed as available.
The meeting happened during a time when UFO sightings were a topic of concern.

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The Hill

Controversial gondola proposal in Hawaii halted after governor signs bill

June 29, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

A plan to build a gondola on Oʻahu's North Shore in Hawaii has been stopped after the governor signed a new law. This means the gondola project will not move forward for now.

Key Facts

The gondola was proposed to be built on the North Shore of Oʻahu, Hawaii.
The project faced controversy and opposition.
The governor of Hawaii signed a bill that halts the gondola proposal.
The law officially prevents the gondola from being constructed.
The decision affects transportation plans in that area.
The halt reflects concerns from the community or officials.

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The Hill

3 firefighters killed as wildfires stoked by heat, wind rage across the West

June 29, 2026 • World • The Hill

Summary

Wildfires are burning across the Western United States, driven by hot weather and strong winds. The National Weather Service says fire danger is very high, especially in the area where Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah meet.

Key Facts

Three firefighters have died while fighting wildfires in the West.
Hot temperatures and strong winds are making fires spread faster.
The National Weather Service states wildfire risk is critical in the Southwest.
The Four Corners region, where four states meet, faces especially high danger.
Firefighters are working to control the blazes amid tough conditions.

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The Hill

Social Security Payments Up To $5,181 Start Arriving—Who Gets Paid?

June 29, 2026 • Us • Newsweek

Summary

Millions of Americans will receive Social Security payments in July, with some retirees getting up to $5,181. Payments are spread out on different days depending on birth date, when benefits started, and whether the person also gets Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Key Facts

Social Security payments in July follow a set schedule based on birthday and benefit start date.
The maximum monthly retirement benefit in 2026 is $4,152 at full retirement age, or $5,181 if delaying until age 70 with a strong earnings record.
The average monthly retirement benefit in 2026 is about $2,071 after a 2.8% cost-of-living increase.
SSI payments have different maximums: $994 per month for individuals and $1,491 for couples in 2026.
Some states add extra money to SSI through State Supplementary Payments, which vary by state and recipient circumstances.
The SSA staggers payments to reduce pressure on the system and banks.
An early SSI payment for August happens on July 31 because the usual August 1 payment date falls on a weekend.
Only a small number of recipients qualify for the highest Social Security payments due to strict earnings and timing rules.

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Newsweek

Luigi Mangione returns to federal court as jury plans take shape

June 29, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

Luigi Mangione is involved in a federal court case where plans for a jury are being made. His lawyer, Karen Friedman Agnifilo, said there were no plea talks in the case.

Key Facts

Luigi Mangione is a defendant in a federal court case.
The case is moving forward with preparations for a jury trial.
Karen Friedman Agnifilo is Mangione’s attorney.
No plea negotiations have happened in this case.
The information comes from statements made by Mangione's lawyer.

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The Hill

Alex Murdaugh’s murder retrial begins with scheduling hearing

June 29, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

Alex Murdaugh, a well-known lawyer from South Carolina, was found guilty in 2023 of murdering his wife and son. His new trial for this crime started with a hearing to set the schedule.

Key Facts

Alex Murdaugh is a lawyer from South Carolina.
He was convicted in 2023 of killing his wife and son.
A new trial related to these murders has begun.
The first step in the new trial was a hearing to organize the timeline and schedule.
Murdaugh had been a prominent figure in the South Carolina legal community.

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The Hill

Zohran Mamdani’s Freezer Burn Socialism

June 29, 2026 • Us • Newsweek

Summary

New York City’s mayor, Zohran Mamdani, secured a rent freeze for 1 million apartments to help tenants with rising costs. However, experts warn that while rents stay the same, building maintenance and repair costs may increase, possibly affecting services like heating and elevators in the future.

Key Facts

The rent freeze applies from October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2027, covering one-year and two-year leases in rent-stabilized apartments.
The Rent Guidelines Board, with members appointed partly by the mayor, approved the freeze after considering tenants’ ability to pay and building costs.
Mamdani’s administration aims to make essentials cheaper, also planning free child care and fare-free buses.
Operating costs such as fuel, insurance, and maintenance for buildings have been rising steadily.
The rent freeze helps tenants now but may lead to problems later if landlords cannot afford repairs and maintenance.
The city may face increased pressure for enforcement and emergency fixes if building conditions worsen.
Critics describe this situation as “freezer burn socialism,” meaning price relief now might cause service quality to deteriorate over time.

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Newsweek

Vance Vs Rubio: Is Team Trump divided on Iran and Lebanon?

June 29, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

President Donald Trump signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Iran to end a months-long conflict. His deputy, JD Vance, supported the deal and criticized Israel’s military actions, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended Israel and condemned Iran. These differing views led to questions about unity within the Trump administration, but the White House denied any split.

Key Facts

President Trump signed an MoU with Iran aiming to end a long conflict.
JD Vance, who helped negotiate the deal, praised the progress and called for ending Israel’s military attacks on Lebanese civilians.
More than 4,000 people have died and 1.2 million displaced in Israeli attacks on Lebanon since March.
Marco Rubio supports Israel’s military actions and blames Iran for attacks in the Gulf region.
The U.S. and Iran engaged in several attacks near the Strait of Hormuz shortly after the MoU was signed.
The Strait of Hormuz is an important waterway for global energy supplies.
Vance criticized Israel’s public opposition to the Iran agreement and urged Israel to stop attacking the Trump administration.
The White House said there is no disagreement between Vance and Rubio despite their different statements.

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Al Jazeera

Chinese Warship Shadows US Patrol in South China Sea

June 29, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

China sent a warship and coast guard ships to watch U.S. and Philippine military drills in the South China Sea. These exercises happened near Scarborough Shoal, a disputed area that China controls but the Philippines also claims.

Key Facts

China deployed a Jiangkai-class guided-missile frigate and three coast guard cutters over the weekend.
The U.S. Coast Guard and Philippine navy and coast guard conducted joint drills less than 60 miles from Scarborough Shoal.
Scarborough Shoal is a fishing area China took from the Philippines in 2012, leading to ongoing tensions.
China calls its patrols "routine" and accuses the Philippines of working with countries outside the region to harm peace.
The U.S. and Philippines call their drills "maritime cooperative activities" aimed at strengthening regional security and cooperation.
The exercises included search-and-rescue operations, ship maneuvers, and sharing information on maritime activity.
The drills support a rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific region.
China has previously declared a nature reserve over much of Scarborough Shoal and placed structures there, which the Philippines views as a violation of its sovereignty.

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Newsweek

‘It definitely trickles down’: Muslims in Texas suffer effects of Republicans’ hate speech

June 29, 2026 • Us • Guardian US

Summary

A rise in anti-Muslim hate speech has been reported in Texas, linked to recent Republican political events and rhetoric. Muslim Texans say this speech is affecting their daily lives through verbal attacks and discrimination, including at schools and public places.

Key Facts

Anti-Muslim hate speech increased after a Republican primary runoff in Texas.
Muslims in Texas report verbal attacks, including a Qur’an being burned publicly.
Students at the University of Houston faced Islamophobic comments while praying.
Muslim children encounter anti-Islam messages in schools from peers.
At the Texas GOP convention, some Muslim attendees faced demands to convert or leave the country.
Republican politicians have promoted legislation to restrict immigration from Muslim-majority countries.
The Texas GOP convention included calls to criminalize Sharia law, despite no efforts to implement it in Texas.
Some lawmakers and supporters have publicly funded or supported individuals spreading anti-Muslim messages.

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Guardian US

Locked up in America: new reports hit at costs of incarcerating women

June 29, 2026 • Us • Guardian US

Summary

Two new reports from the Council on Criminal Justice examine the high costs of imprisoning women in the United States. They find that incarcerating women is much more expensive than men due to health needs and care responsibilities, and reducing women’s prison time by half could save money with little effect on crime rates.

Key Facts

The number of women in U.S. prisons has grown over 600% since 1980.
It costs about $87,000 to $122,000 per year to imprison each woman, compared to $70,000 for each man.
Women in prison need more specialized healthcare, like pregnancy care, which increases expenses.
By 2035, incarcerating women could cost up to $34 billion annually.
Reducing women’s prison time by 50% would only slightly increase arrests—mostly for nonviolent crimes—and save millions in Illinois and North Carolina.
Savings from reducing women’s prison time do not include lost household work like caregiving and cooking, which is valued at about $2.8 billion annually.
Most incarcerated women are mothers, and their imprisonment disrupts family stability more than when men are imprisoned.
Reducing incarceration for women could help families and cut costs without harming public safety.

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Guardian US

Donald Trump hijacked America’s 250 and turned it into a ‘theatre of the absurd’

June 29, 2026 • Us • Guardian US

Summary

The United States celebrated its 250th anniversary of independence, but the events have sparked controversy and division. President Donald Trump has played a major role in the celebrations, organizing projects and events that critics say feel more like political shows than historic commemorations.

Key Facts

The 250th anniversary marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
The original signing was risky and seen as an act of treason against the British crown.
President Trump has promoted the anniversary celebrations and started projects in Washington DC, including cleaning statues and fountains.
A $14.7 million renovation of the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool faced issues, including algae growth and peeling paint soon after completion.
Trump blamed vandals for the reflecting pool problems and threatened jail time for them.
To mark his 80th birthday, Trump hosted UFC fighting matches on the White House South Lawn, an unusual choice for a national celebration.
Trump also held the Great American State Fair on the National Mall, which many critics saw as similar to a political rally.
Some states chose not to send delegations because of how closely Trump was involved in the events.

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Guardian US

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