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More than a month into DR Congo Ebola outbreak, doctors warn 'this epidemic will last'

More than a month into DR Congo Ebola outbreak, doctors warn 'this epidemic will last'

Summary

An Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) started in early 2026 and has affected more than 1,000 people in over 30 areas. Despite some patients recovering after treatment, health workers warn that the epidemic is continuing and may last a long time due to challenges in tracking cases and reaching some communities.

Key Facts

  • The Ebola epidemic in the DRC began officially on May 17, 2026, but cases appeared as early as April.
  • Over 1,150 cases and 300 deaths have been confirmed as of late June 2026.
  • Ebola remains hard to control because some affected zones are dangerous or hard to reach, such as mining areas near borders.
  • Health workers celebrated the recovery and hospital release of 14 patients in Mongbwalu, the outbreak’s center.
  • Some infected people, including hospital staff, caught Ebola from contact with infected bodies, which remain contagious after death.
  • There is uncertainty about the total number of cases and deaths due to incomplete testing and possible confusion with other diseases like malaria.
  • International groups like the World Health Organization and Médecins Sans Frontières are involved in monitoring and responding to the epidemic.
  • Health experts describe the current response as delayed and say the epidemic is still spreading.
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OpenAI limits its newest ChatGPT product to Trump-approved customers during cybersecurity review

OpenAI limits its newest ChatGPT product to Trump-approved customers during cybersecurity review

Summary

OpenAI is limiting access to its newest AI model, GPT-5.6 Sol, to a small group approved by President Donald Trump’s administration. This decision comes as part of a government review of AI products to reduce cybersecurity risks before a wider public release.

Key Facts

  • OpenAI’s newest AI model is called GPT-5.6 Sol.
  • Access to this model is currently restricted to trusted partners chosen by President Trump’s administration.
  • The government is reviewing advanced AI systems to check for national security and cybersecurity risks.
  • The review process comes after similar government actions impacted another AI company, Anthropic.
  • Anthropic had to remove two AI models from public use because of a Trump directive blocking their use by foreign nationals.
  • OpenAI says GPT-5.6 Sol helps find and fix software vulnerabilities but does not currently pose high risks for cyberattacks.
  • The company is using a phased release and stronger safety measures due to the model’s increased abilities.
  • President Trump signed an executive order in June to create a process for vetting advanced AI before they are widely released.
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Newsom calls for ‘national billionaires tax’

Newsom calls for ‘national billionaires tax’

Summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom proposed a national tax on the richest Americans to reduce the gap between rich and poor. He shared his plan publicly right after a different billionaire tax was approved for California’s November ballot, which he did not support.

Key Facts

  • Governor Gavin Newsom is from California and a member of the Democratic Party.
  • Newsom wants to create a tax that applies to billionaires across the whole United States.
  • His goal is to address the growing difference in wealth between very rich people and others.
  • A separate billionaire tax measure will appear on California’s ballot in November.
  • Newsom disagreed with this California billionaire tax proposal.
  • He explained his national tax idea in a public article on a platform called Substack.
  • The timing of his announcement came just one day after the California tax proposal was approved for voting.
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Vance: Watergate would be ‘12-hour news story’ today

Vance: Watergate would be ‘12-hour news story’ today

Summary

Vice President JD Vance said that the Watergate scandal, which caused President Richard Nixon to resign, would only be major news for about 12 hours if it happened today. He suggested that the media today would not give the story enough attention to end a presidency.

Key Facts

  • JD Vance is the Vice President of the United States.
  • Vance spoke during a conversation with the Richard Nixon Foundation.
  • Watergate was a political scandal that led to President Nixon’s resignation.
  • Vance said Watergate would be a "12-hour news story" in today’s media environment.
  • He expressed doubt that a scandal like Watergate would cause a presidency to end now.
  • The comment was made on a Thursday event.
  • The remark focuses on changes in media coverage over time.
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Major bills in limbo after House leaders cancel votes amid SAVE America Act standoff

Major bills in limbo after House leaders cancel votes amid SAVE America Act standoff

Summary

House Republican leaders canceled votes on several important bills after some conservative members linked to President Trump said they would oppose the legislation because of the SAVE America Act. This caused a pause in the legislative process.

Key Facts

  • House Republican leaders planned votes on key bills for Friday.
  • Some conservative Republicans allied with President Trump threatened to block the bills.
  • The disagreement involved the SAVE America Act, a specific piece of legislation.
  • Due to this threat, House Republican leaders canceled the planned votes.
  • The bills affected by this cancellation are now delayed and in limbo.
  • The situation reflects ongoing tensions within the House Republican group.
  • The SAVE America Act is central to the disagreement.
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Your Social Security benefits could be cut by a quarter in 2032. Here's what to know

Your Social Security benefits could be cut by a quarter in 2032. Here's what to know

Summary

A recent report says that by 2032, Social Security benefits in the U.S. may have to be cut by about 25% because the program will run out of money. This is happening sooner than expected due to people living longer, fewer births, and income differences causing the system to pay out more money than it receives.

Key Facts

  • Social Security benefits might be cut by nearly a quarter in 2032.
  • The Social Security Board of Trustees published this warning on June 9.
  • The expected depletion date moved up from 2035 to 2032.
  • The program is paying out more money in benefits than it collects in taxes.
  • Factors causing this include an aging population and lower birth rates.
  • Increasing income inequality also affects the program's finances.
  • Experts have been warning about these financial issues for years.
  • The Bipartisan Policy Center’s economic policy vice president commented on the financing gap.
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Andy Burnham says he will give 15% of his MP’s pay to local causes

Andy Burnham says he will give 15% of his MP’s pay to local causes

Summary

Andy Burnham announced he will donate 15% of his salary as a Member of Parliament to local causes in his area, Makerfield. He has done similar donations as mayor of Greater Manchester and plans to support community groups like the Stubshaw Cross Community and Sports Club.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham will give 15% of his MP salary to local causes in Makerfield.
  • An MP’s salary is currently £98,599 per year.
  • Burnham donated part of his £118,267 mayoral salary for almost 10 years to fight homelessness.
  • He plans to start donations with the Stubshaw Cross Community and Sports Club, linked to his recent election campaign.
  • Burnham is expected to become Labour leader and prime minister next month without challengers.
  • Other MPs, such as Rupert Lowe and Ellie Chowns, also donate part or all of their salaries to charities.
  • As prime minister, Burnham’s combined salary would be over £174,039 per year.
  • Donations by MPs are organized in part through the Give-As-You-Earn scheme managed by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority.
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Judge declares mistrial in California wildfire arson case

Judge declares mistrial in California wildfire arson case

Summary

A judge declared a mistrial in the case against Jonathan Rinderknecht, who is accused of starting the deadliest wildfire in Los Angeles history in January 2025. The jury could not agree on a verdict, and prosecutors plan to try the case again.

Key Facts

  • Jonathan Rinderknecht is accused of starting the Pacific Palisades fire in January 2025.
  • The fire killed 12 people and destroyed more than 6,000 buildings.
  • The wildfire was part of multiple fires in the LA area that month, killing 31 people and destroying 16,000 structures.
  • The jury was unable to reach a unanimous decision after two days of deliberations.
  • The judge declared a mistrial because of the jury deadlock.
  • Prosecutors plan to retry the case.
  • Rinderknecht was arrested in October 2025 and pleaded not guilty.
  • Prosecutors said he used ChatGPT like a diary, showing his fascination with fire before starting the blaze.
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'Supergirl' Review: A Beautifully Crafted Film With Plenty of Heart

'Supergirl' Review: A Beautifully Crafted Film With Plenty of Heart

Summary

The movie "Supergirl," directed by Craig Gillespie, tells the story of Kara Zor-El (played by Milly Alcock) as she struggles to find her place on Earth while trying to save her dog, Krypto, from a deadly poison. The film focuses on Kara's emotional journey and portrays her as a young woman dealing with loneliness and loss.

Key Facts

  • "Supergirl" is inspired by the comic series "Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow."
  • Kara Zor-El, also known as Supergirl, is played by Milly Alcock.
  • The plot includes a villain named Krem who poisons Kara’s dog, Krypto.
  • Kara has only three days to find a cure to save Krypto’s life.
  • The film highlights Kara’s emotional vulnerabilities and her struggle to belong.
  • Visual effects and production design create a colorful and unique world supporting the story.
  • Some parts of the movie slow down pacing and feature less engaging action scenes.
  • Milly Alcock’s acting is praised for making Supergirl feel real and relatable.
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Epstein's assistant grilled by lawmakers over Amex travel booked for women or girls

Epstein's assistant grilled by lawmakers over Amex travel booked for women or girls

Summary

U.S. lawmakers questioned Jeffrey Epstein's assistant, Lesley Groff, about trips Epstein booked using American Express for women and girls. Groff said she arranged travel for adults she believed were Epstein's assistants and denied knowing the trips were for illegal purposes.

Key Facts

  • Lesley Groff worked for Jeffrey Epstein for nearly 20 years and helped arrange travel bookings through American Express.
  • Epstein used special American Express cards to book many trips for women or girls, mostly from Eastern Europe.
  • Groff testified she did not think she ever booked travel for anyone under 18.
  • She denied awareness that the travel was meant for sexual activities.
  • Lawmakers asked if some flights were "decoy flights" intended to help women get visas.
  • Emails show Groff requested fake flights to create travel itineraries.
  • Groff said some women wanted to hide travel details from their parents, not for visa reasons.
  • American Express had policies against booking trips only for visa purposes but sometimes made exceptions.
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New ISA and Lifetime ISA changes explained

New ISA and Lifetime ISA changes explained

Summary

The article explains recent changes to ISAs (Individual Savings Accounts) and Lifetime ISAs in the UK. It provides information on how these changes may affect personal savings and investments.

Key Facts

  • ISAs are tax-free savings accounts available in the UK.
  • Lifetime ISAs help people save for their first home or retirement.
  • Recent changes were made to the rules governing these accounts.
  • The article explains new limits or benefits in simple terms.
  • These changes may influence how much people can save or invest each year.
  • The updates aim to make savings more effective for individuals.
  • The article includes practical advice from money expert Martin Lewis.
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Parisians flee furnace-like heat wave by escaping to cooling centers

Parisians flee furnace-like heat wave by escaping to cooling centers

Summary

Many people in Paris are leaving their homes because of a very hot heat wave. Since many homes do not have air conditioning, people are going to public cooling centers to find relief from the heat.

Key Facts

  • Paris is experiencing an intense heat wave with very high temperatures.
  • Many Paris residents do not have air conditioning in their homes.
  • People are using public cooling centers to stay safe and cool.
  • Cooling centers are public places set up to help people escape extreme heat.
  • The heat wave has caused discomfort and health concerns for many residents.
  • Local authorities are encouraging the use of cooling centers during this heat wave.
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DR Congo takes Rwanda to international court over decades of conflict

DR Congo takes Rwanda to international court over decades of conflict

Summary

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) has taken Rwanda to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing Rwanda of supporting armed groups in DR Congo and breaking international treaties. DR Congo wants the court to make Rwanda stop these actions and pay compensation.

Key Facts

  • DR Congo filed a case at the ICJ accusing Rwanda of illegal military actions on its soil.
  • The accusations include violations of treaties on genocide prevention, racial discrimination, women's rights, and torture.
  • Rwanda is accused of backing the M23 rebel group in eastern DR Congo, which has captured large areas there.
  • Rwanda denies supporting rebel groups and calls one such group, the FDLR, a genocidal militia threatening its security.
  • The conflict started after the 1994 Rwandan genocide, which led many Hutus to flee into DR Congo.
  • Past ICJ cases between DR Congo and Rwanda were stopped because Rwanda did not accept the court’s authority.
  • Despite a peace deal signed in December 2024 with US support, fighting has continued in eastern DR Congo.
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Fourth toddler dies in France as Europe’s brutal heatwave forecast to shift east

Fourth toddler dies in France as Europe’s brutal heatwave forecast to shift east

Summary

A severe heatwave in Europe has caused at least four toddlers to die in France and led to more than 55 drownings across the country. The extreme heat, fueled by climate change, is hitting millions of people and has broken temperature records in the UK, putting a strain on hospitals and emergency services.

Key Facts

  • Four toddlers in France have died in heat-related incidents, including one found in a hot car and others trapped or left unattended.
  • Over 55 people have drowned in France since the heatwave began.
  • The heatwave is affecting about 150 million people in Europe with temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F) or higher.
  • Scientists say this is the most severe and widespread heatwave ever in the region, linked to climate change from fossil fuel use.
  • The UK set new records for the hottest June days, with temperatures reaching 37.3°C in Suffolk.
  • London and much of southern England are under a red heat alert, meaning serious health risks even for healthy individuals.
  • Hospitals and emergency services in the UK and France are overwhelmed, with some hospitals declaring critical incidents.
  • Measures like school closures, travel advisories, hosepipe bans, and public alcohol drinking bans in Paris have been put in place to manage the heatwave’s effects.
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Rochdale man sentenced for assault on police officers and customer at Manchester airport

Rochdale man sentenced for assault on police officers and customer at Manchester airport

Summary

A man from Rochdale, Mohammed Fahir Amaaz, was sentenced to three and a half years in prison for assaulting two female police officers and a customer at Manchester airport. The court heard how he violently attacked the officers and the public member during an incident caught on video in July 2024.

Key Facts

  • Mohammed Fahir Amaaz, 21, was convicted of common assault and two counts of actual bodily harm.
  • The incident occurred at a Starbucks in Manchester airport in July 2024.
  • Amaaz attacked two female police officers, PC Lydia Ward and PC Ellie Cook, and a member of the public.
  • Injuries to the officers included a broken nose, concussion, and bruising.
  • Video footage showed Amaaz head-butting one person and throwing multiple punches, elbows, and a kick at the officers.
  • Amaaz and his brother claimed self-defense but were not found fully credible in court.
  • The officers described the attack as sudden and traumatic, affecting their health and careers.
  • Officer Ellie Cook, who was starting a new role as a firearms officer, said the attack left her unable to continue her dream career path.
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Disgraced newsreader Huw Edwards' blog shows staggering lack of awareness, campaigners say

Disgraced newsreader Huw Edwards' blog shows staggering lack of awareness, campaigners say

Summary

Huw Edwards, a former BBC news presenter who was convicted in 2024 for accessing illegal child images, has started a blog on Substack where he discusses current events and mental health. His decision to return to a public platform has been criticized by child sexual abuse campaigners who say it shows a lack of awareness and respect for victims.

Key Facts

  • In 2024, Huw Edwards admitted to accessing 41 illegal images of children, including some very serious ones.
  • He received a six-month suspended prison sentence and was put on the sex offenders' register for seven years.
  • Edwards launched a Substack blog offering commentary on current affairs and mental health topics.
  • Campaigners say Edwards' blog shows a “staggering lack of awareness” and is disrespectful to survivors.
  • Emma Jane Taylor, a survivor and campaigner, said Edwards should not have a public platform and should show genuine remorse privately.
  • Edwards has expressed regret and remorse publicly and in court.
  • The blog’s comment section is disabled, limiting public response directly on the site.
  • Some supporters believe Edwards deserves a second chance, but many victims and campaigners feel the blog could harm survivors.
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France Spends Billions on Ukraine—Debates Cost of AC at Home

France Spends Billions on Ukraine—Debates Cost of AC at Home

Summary

France is facing a record-breaking heatwave that has caused many deaths and led to debates about installing air conditioning (AC) in public buildings. The National Rally party supports a large plan to expand AC in schools, hospitals, and homes, while some environmentalists remain cautious. Europe is seeing unusually high temperatures, with Spain and the UK also breaking heat records.

Key Facts

  • France is experiencing the hottest temperatures since 1947, with warnings of dangerous heat levels.
  • The heat has caused dozens of deaths in France and about 200 deaths in Spain.
  • France’s National Rally (RN) party proposes a "plan clim" to install AC in all schools, hospitals, and homes with €20 billion in interest-free loans.
  • France has traditionally avoided widespread AC use, focusing instead on insulation to save energy.
  • Some environmental leaders now accept limited AC use due to rising temperatures, while others warn it could worsen climate change.
  • France has sent about €6 billion in military aid to Ukraine since 2022, less than Germany (€24.2 billion) and the U.S. (€64.6 billion).
  • Other European countries, like Spain and the UK, are also breaking heat records amid the ongoing heatwave.
  • Governments are taking various actions to protect people, such as closing schools and canceling events in extreme heat.
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DR Congo files case against Rwanda at ICJ over decades of alleged ‘abuses’

DR Congo files case against Rwanda at ICJ over decades of alleged ‘abuses’

Summary

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has filed a case against Rwanda at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing Rwanda of causing violence and abuses in eastern DRC for over 30 years. The DRC claims Rwandan forces and allied groups attacked civilians and refugee camps, leading to widespread suffering.

Key Facts

  • The DRC filed the case with the ICJ, the main UN court for disputes between countries.
  • The case covers alleged abuses from 1996 to today in eastern DRC.
  • The abuses mainly targeted ethnic groups such as Hutus, Nyindu, Bembe, Lega, Nande, Hunde, and Bashi.
  • The DRC says Rwanda and allied armed groups, including M23 and AFDL, carried out massacres, torture, sexual violence, forced displacement, and discrimination.
  • M23 captured two important cities, Goma and Bukavu, in early 2025, displacing many people.
  • Recent peace efforts, including a US-brokered deal and a Qatari ceasefire, have failed to stop the fighting.
  • Rwanda denies supporting M23 and claims it acts to defend itself against the FDLR militia.
  • The DRC wants the ICJ to order Rwanda to stop the violations and pay reparations to victims and the state.
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Trump threatens 100% tax on European imports if countries impose tax on digital services

Trump threatens 100% tax on European imports if countries impose tax on digital services

Summary

President Donald Trump warned that the United States will impose a 100% tax (tariff) on all goods from any country that introduces a tax on digital services provided by American companies. He specifically addressed European countries considering such digital taxes and said this new tariff would replace any existing trade agreements.

Key Facts

  • President Trump announced the threat of a 100% tariff on imports from countries taxing U.S. digital services.
  • The warning was posted on social media targeting European countries planning digital taxes.
  • The tariff would apply immediately and override any current trade deals.
  • Trump has pushed back before against foreign digital taxes on American tech companies.
  • The threat comes ahead of a July 4 deadline for the U.S. and European Union to approve a trade deal capping EU exports’ tariffs at 15%.
  • The EU-U.S. trade deal finalized in May did not include rules about digital taxes.
  • Digital taxes remain a key point of disagreement between the U.S. and the European Union.
  • European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen helped finalize the trade deal during a visit to President Trump’s golf course in Scotland.
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Trump blames Iran for a drone strike on a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz

Trump blames Iran for a drone strike on a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz

Summary

President Donald Trump said Iran carried out a drone attack on a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a violation of a ceasefire agreement. The ship was damaged but remained operational, and other drones targeting the ship were shot down by the U.S. The event adds tension to ongoing talks between the U.S. and Iran aimed at ending conflict.

Key Facts

  • President Trump accused Iran of attacking a cargo ship with a drone in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The drone damaged the ship’s upper deck, but it was still able to continue its journey.
  • The U.S. intercepted and destroyed three other drones targeting the same ship.
  • The British military reported a vessel was hit by a projectile near Oman the day before.
  • The attack happened during fragile peace talks between the U.S. and Iran.
  • A missile warning alert in Dubai was triggered by a technical glitch amid regional tensions.
  • UAE and Iranian foreign ministers held a call emphasizing the need to honor the interim peace deal.
  • The U.N. nuclear watchdog has begun talks to inspect Iran’s nuclear facilities, but progress is slow.
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