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Senior Ukrainian intelligence official jailed for life for spying for Russia

Senior Ukrainian intelligence official jailed for life for spying for Russia

Summary

A senior Ukrainian intelligence officer, Colonel Dmytro Kozyura, was sentenced to life in prison for spying for Russia's security service. He shared secret military and political information with Russia and was caught after being monitored by Ukraine’s security service.

Key Facts

  • Colonel Dmytro Kozyura was chief of staff at Ukraine’s anti-terrorism center.
  • He was recruited by Russia’s FSB in 2018 and resumed contact with them in December 2024.
  • Kozyura shared classified information about Ukraine’s military, leadership, and infrastructure.
  • Ukrainian intelligence arrested him in February 2025 after monitoring his communications.
  • He used a safehouse in Kyiv and separate devices to communicate with Russian handlers.
  • Before his arrest, Ukraine used Kozyura to send false information to Russian forces.
  • He was convicted of high treason and illegal handling of weapons under martial law.
  • The judge gave him a life sentence, the harshest punishment for spying.
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Radio 2 DJ Trevor Nelson taking break from broadcasting over health issues

Radio 2 DJ Trevor Nelson taking break from broadcasting over health issues

Summary

Trevor Nelson, a BBC Radio 2 DJ, is taking a break from broadcasting due to health issues after a routine check-up led to further medical tests. He shared the news on Instagram and plans to focus on getting better before returning to work.

Key Facts

  • Trevor Nelson has not been on air all week due to health reasons.
  • He announced his break on Instagram to keep his followers informed.
  • Nelson was advised to have more medical tests after a routine check-up.
  • He has had a 30-year career at the BBC promoting black music genres like R&B, soul, and hip-hop.
  • Many musicians and media professionals sent him messages of support.
  • BBC Radio 2 and BBC Radio 1Xtra leaders wish him a speedy recovery.
  • Nelson recently received awards recognizing his broadcasting career, including one this week and one earlier this year.
  • He will still be heard on a pre-recorded concert broadcast on Radio 2 this Sunday.
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New Brain Treatments Are Training Us to Stress Less

New Brain Treatments Are Training Us to Stress Less

Summary

Neurowellness is a new field that uses technology and lifestyle changes to help people reduce stress and improve brain health. Devices like brainwave-reading headbands and nerve stimulators support better sleep and mental rest, while tests measure brain function to create personalized care plans.

Key Facts

  • Neurowellness helps people manage mental overload and stress by supporting brain health and nervous system adaptability.
  • Increased screen time has been linked to higher risks of insomnia, anxiety, and stress, especially in young people.
  • Cognitive Function Testing uses computer games to assess memory, attention, and reasoning, creating personalized brain health profiles.
  • SHA Wellness resort offers brain tests and treatments like acupuncture, massage, and yoga to improve cognitive performance and resilience.
  • Devices like Pulsetto FIT stimulate the vagus nerve to reduce stress, and the Elemind headband reads brainwaves to improve sleep quality.
  • Neurowellness focuses on prevention and lifestyle improvements rather than just treating illness.
  • The NeuroWellness Center uses a mix of therapy and brain mapping technology to provide personalized recommendations.
  • The Global Wellness Summit has recognized neurowellness as a major health trend for the year.
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Trump’s State Fair Loses Power on First Day

Trump’s State Fair Loses Power on First Day

Summary

A power outage disrupted food vendors on the first full day of President Donald Trump’s Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C. The fair has faced questions about attendance, planning, and participation since it opened.

Key Facts

  • Parts of a major food hall lost electricity, causing vendors to stop serving some items and ice cream to melt.
  • The power outage happened intermittently, with lights switching off and on inside tents.
  • Some vendors had to wait about 30 minutes to resume cooking hot food once power returned.
  • Food and drink prices reported included turkey legs around $23, burgers and sausages near $20, and lemonade about $9.
  • President Trump said about 45,000 people attended the kickoff rally, but independent reports estimated much smaller crowds, around 1,000.
  • Several states declined to send official exhibits due to costs and concerns about the fair’s political tone.
  • Some performers canceled their appearances, leading to a reduced entertainment lineup.
  • Weather forecasts predict rain and thunderstorms, which could affect fair attendance and outdoor events in coming days.
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King Charles' Wealth Compared To Trump's as UK Monarch Shares Tax Bill

King Charles' Wealth Compared To Trump's as UK Monarch Shares Tax Bill

Summary

King Charles III has paid over $40 million in taxes since becoming king in 2022, sharing new details about the British monarchy’s finances. In comparison, U.S. President Donald Trump’s wealth and tax records are less transparent, though Forbes estimates Trump’s net worth at about $6.5 billion.

Key Facts

  • King Charles III’s net worth is estimated at about £680 million ($900 million).
  • Charles’s income mainly comes from the Duchy of Lancaster estate and personal investments, not a government salary.
  • Since his reign began in September 2022, Charles has paid over $40 million in taxes.
  • President Trump’s net worth is estimated at $6.5 billion, mostly from real estate, golf clubs, cryptocurrency, and media companies.
  • Trump chose to take a $1 salary as president instead of the official $400,000 annual salary.
  • Trump’s wealth grew by $1.4 billion over the past year, with some losses in his media company’s value.
  • Trump has not fully released his tax returns, breaking with past presidents, but some returns were leaked showing limited federal income tax paid in recent years.
  • Charles’s tax disclosure provides a rare public look at royal finances, while Trump continues to face calls to release his full tax documents.
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TotalEnergies ordered to account for client emissions in landmark climate ruling

TotalEnergies ordered to account for client emissions in landmark climate ruling

Summary

A French court has ruled that TotalEnergies, an energy company, must include the pollution caused by its customers in its climate plan. This is the first time France’s law on Corporate Duty of Vigilance has been used to address climate change.

Key Facts

  • The court ruling requires TotalEnergies to account for emissions caused not just by the company but also by its clients.
  • This decision uses France’s Corporate Duty of Vigilance law, which aims to make companies responsible for social and environmental impacts.
  • TotalEnergies is a major energy company involved in fossil fuels.
  • The ruling is considered a landmark in how companies must address climate change legally.
  • The case was brought forward by NGOs, including Notre Affaire à Tous.
  • TotalEnergies must revise its climate policies within six months.
  • France is using this law to push companies to take more responsibility for climate-related actions.
  • The ruling could influence other companies and countries to follow similar legal steps.
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Who has profited most from the war on Iran?

Who has profited most from the war on Iran?

Summary

The recent conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran has caused energy prices to rise sharply and affected global trade. Meanwhile, some companies, especially in energy and defense, have made significant profits due to these disruptions. Talks are underway to establish a ceasefire and negotiate issues including Iran’s nuclear program and sanctions.

Key Facts

  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway where about 20% of the world’s oil and natural gas usually passes.
  • Fighting and strikes have caused oil prices to spike, reaching up to $126 per barrel before dropping back to around $72.
  • Saudi Aramco’s profits rose 25% to $32.5 billion in the first quarter compared to last year, helped by its pipeline bypassing the Strait.
  • British Petroleum doubled its first-quarter profits to $3.2 billion, beating analyst predictions.
  • Shell reported $6.9 billion in profits despite damage to a major gas plant from regional strikes.
  • TotalEnergies made $5.4 billion in first-quarter net income, maintaining exports by using alternative routes.
  • US liquefied natural gas (LNG) companies like Venture Global and Cheniere Energy are positioned to benefit from supply shifts caused by the conflict.
  • Industry experts say many energy companies outside the immediate Middle East region are likely to profit if high prices continue.
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Great Britain’s grid operator warns again over power supplies in heatwave

Great Britain’s grid operator warns again over power supplies in heatwave

Summary

Great Britain’s energy system operator warned about tight electricity supplies due to a heatwave causing high demand for cooling. The operator asked power generators to increase output to avoid problems, but the overall electricity supply remains stable, with no blackouts expected.

Key Facts

  • The National Energy System Operator (Neso) issued a warning about electricity supply tightness on Thursday.
  • The heatwave is causing many people to use air conditioners and fans, raising electricity demand.
  • Neso had previously issued a similar warning earlier in the week.
  • Wind speeds have slowed because of the heat, reducing renewable energy production.
  • Neso paid about £10 million extra to gas power plants to boost electricity output on Wednesday evening.
  • Some UK gas power plants have reduced output due to the heat.
  • In France, four nuclear plants stopped working unexpectedly because river water was too warm to cool reactors.
  • The French utility EDF plans to spend €80 million to install cooling systems in schools and daycare centers for future heatwaves.
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Even young and fit urged to skip runs and too many beers in heatwave

Even young and fit urged to skip runs and too many beers in heatwave

Summary

Europe is experiencing extreme heat causing more medical emergencies, including heart problems, even among young and fit people. Officials advise avoiding outdoor exercise and limiting alcohol to stay hydrated and reduce health risks during the heatwave.

Key Facts

  • Ambulance services in London and Paris report sharp rises in serious emergencies like cardiac arrests due to the heat.
  • London saw a 50% increase in life-threatening emergency calls, with cardiac arrests up 30% on the hottest day this week.
  • Paris will ban public drinking of alcohol for two days to help reduce heat-related health issues.
  • Alcohol causes dehydration by making you urinate more, which is dangerous during hot weather when you sweat a lot.
  • Heat exhaustion can quickly develop into heatstroke, a medical emergency where the body cannot cool down.
  • Experts suggest avoiding strenuous exercise outdoors during high temperatures and choosing cooler times like early morning or late evening.
  • Officials warn that even young and healthy people are vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
  • People are advised to hydrate well by drinking water regularly, especially between alcoholic drinks, to prevent dehydration.
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Highlife enjoys growing popularity in the hands of new generation of musicians

Highlife enjoys growing popularity in the hands of new generation of musicians

Summary

Highlife is a style of music that started about 100 years ago in the port cities of Ghana. It mixes old colonial brass instruments with traditional African rhythms and was important during West African independence. UNESCO has recognized Highlife as an important cultural heritage, and new musicians are helping the music grow and change.

Key Facts

  • Highlife music began around 100 years ago in Ghana.
  • It combines brass instruments introduced during colonial times with local African rhythms.
  • The genre played a key role during West Africa’s independence movements.
  • UNESCO has added Highlife to the list of intangible cultural heritage.
  • A new generation of musicians is updating Highlife to keep it alive and fresh.
  • The genre is gaining popularity again both in Africa and worldwide.
  • Highlife is called the "grandfather" of modern African music.
  • The music reflects the history and culture of West Africa.
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Baby pulled alive from rubble after Venezuela earthquake

Baby pulled alive from rubble after Venezuela earthquake

Summary

Rescuers in Venezuela found a baby alive under the rubble after a strong earthquake caused buildings to collapse. Teams are still searching for many people who are missing after the disaster.

Key Facts

  • A powerful earthquake hit Venezuela, causing buildings to fall down.
  • Rescuers discovered a baby alive under the collapsed building.
  • Search efforts are ongoing for thousands of missing people.
  • The earthquake caused widespread damage and fear.
  • Emergency teams are working to help victims and find survivors.
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Nigeria's major police reform edges forward after senate approval

Nigeria's major police reform edges forward after senate approval

Summary

The Nigerian Senate approved a bill that lets each of Nigeria's 36 states set up its own police force. This change aims to improve security but also raises worries that powerful state governors might gain too much control, possibly increasing violence.

Key Facts

  • The Nigerian Senate approved the bill on June 24, 2026.
  • The bill allows individual states to create their own police forces.
  • Nigeria has 36 states in total.
  • Recent events, like a large school kidnapping in the southwest, highlighted security problems.
  • Experts caution that giving states police control could empower governors in a country where politics can be violent.
  • The existing national police force has faced criticism over handling conflicts.
  • Security concerns include threats from groups like Boko Haram.
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France’s Green Policies Have Left It Unprepared for Climate Change

France’s Green Policies Have Left It Unprepared for Climate Change

Summary

France experienced extreme heat above 104 degrees Fahrenheit that forced closures of schools and public transport in Paris. The country’s long-term climate policies focused on saving energy and cutting emissions but did not prepare buildings or public spaces for very hot weather, leaving people vulnerable during heatwaves.

Key Facts

  • Paris shut down schools, museums, and public transport during a June heatwave with temperatures over 104°F.
  • France’s climate policies prioritize energy saving and reducing emissions, focusing on keeping buildings warm in winter rather than cool in summer.
  • Only about 7% of French households have air conditioning; including fans, about 25% have any cooling.
  • Public spaces like schools often lack cooling systems, causing closures during extreme heat.
  • French building rules protect historic looks and limit additions such as external air conditioners.
  • Many French homes trap heat because they are built to keep warmth inside during winter.
  • Around 40% of homes lack shutters, which help block solar heat and reduce indoor temperature.
  • The combination of hot weather and unadapted buildings causes dangerous indoor heat levels, especially in dense cities like Paris.
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Russia reports downing 660 Ukrainian drones, denies seeking Belarus war aid

Russia reports downing 660 Ukrainian drones, denies seeking Belarus war aid

Summary

Russia said it shot down 660 drones launched by Ukraine in the biggest strike so far. Ukraine’s drone attacks have damaged Russian energy sites and caused fuel shortages, raising concerns that Russia might ask Belarus to join the war. Belarus denies plans to enter the conflict and says it wants peace.

Key Facts

  • Russia’s Ministry of Defence reported downing 660 Ukrainian drones overnight.
  • The drone attacks hit 13 Russian regions including Moscow and Crimea.
  • A house was damaged and a woman injured in the Tula region due to the attacks.
  • An industrial plant important for Russian explosives production in Novomoskovsk was damaged.
  • Ukraine targets energy infrastructure to disrupt Russia’s war funding and supply lines.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy accused Russia of pushing Belarus to help in the war.
  • Belarus denies plans to join the conflict and says it wants to keep peace.
  • Belarusian President Lukashenko warned Ukraine not to try to drag Belarus into the war.
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Moment woman pulled from rubble alive after Venezuela earthquake

Moment woman pulled from rubble alive after Venezuela earthquake

Summary

Two strong earthquakes hit Venezuela with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, causing major damage. At least 235 people died, 4,300 were injured, and many are still missing. Rescuers saved a woman named Graciela Mora alive from the rubble in the hard-hit area of La Guaira.

Key Facts

  • Two earthquakes of 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude struck Venezuela recently.
  • The quakes are among the strongest in over 100 years in the region.
  • At least 235 people have died due to the earthquakes.
  • About 4,300 people were injured.
  • Many are still trapped under rubble or missing.
  • Graciela Mora was rescued alive from a collapsed building in La Guaira.
  • Graciela suffered injuries, including a broken finger.
  • She held the hand of a friend who died while waiting to be rescued.
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More Than 50,000 Missing in Venezuela Quakes as Death Toll Rises

More Than 50,000 Missing in Venezuela Quakes as Death Toll Rises

Summary

Two strong earthquakes hit Venezuela on Wednesday, causing severe damage and many casualties. Over 50,000 people are reported missing, and the death toll has reached 235, with the number expected to rise.

Key Facts

  • Two earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 struck Venezuela in quick succession on Wednesday evening.
  • The earthquakes caused at least 235 deaths and more than 4,300 injuries so far.
  • More than 50,000 people have been reported missing since the quakes.
  • Rescuers are searching collapsed buildings in Caracas and nearby areas for survivors.
  • The quakes were shallow, less than 20 miles underground, which increased the damage.
  • This double-earthquake event is unusual because both were strong; normally, aftershocks are smaller.
  • The earthquakes’ epicenters were near Moron, about 105 miles west of Caracas.
  • The second quake was the strongest in Venezuela since 1900.
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Why did Tucker Carlson and Marjorie Taylor Greene leave the Republican party? | Geoffrey Kabaservice

Why did Tucker Carlson and Marjorie Taylor Greene leave the Republican party? | Geoffrey Kabaservice

Summary

Tucker Carlson and Marjorie Taylor Greene, former Fox News host and Republican congresswoman, announced they have left the Republican Party. Their split came after disagreements with President Trump’s focus on foreign policy, especially his approach to Iran, instead of domestic issues like inflation.

Key Facts

  • Tucker Carlson and Marjorie Taylor Greene were once strong supporters of President Trump.
  • Both have recently left the Republican Party but do not plan to support Democrats.
  • They disagreed with Trump’s foreign policy, particularly his stance on war with Iran.
  • Carlson criticized Trump for prioritizing Israel’s interests in foreign policy.
  • Greene called Israel’s actions in Gaza a “genocide,” a rare statement from a Republican.
  • President Trump criticized both Carlson and Greene with harsh public comments.
  • Their departure highlights growing divisions within the Republican Party.
  • Both maintain strong support from a faction of Republicans focused on “America first” ideas, which prioritize national interests over international involvement.
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Outrage as woman jailed for three years after criticising Somali government online

Outrage as woman jailed for three years after criticising Somali government online

Summary

A Somali woman named Sadia Moalim Ali was sentenced to three years in prison for criticizing the Somali government on social media. Her case has drawn strong criticism from former officials and human rights groups, who say the sentence is unfair and violates freedom of expression.

Key Facts

  • Sadia Moalim Ali, 27, was jailed after posting critical comments about government issues like youth unemployment, high fuel prices, and corruption.
  • She was convicted of insulting government institutions but not of incitement to commit a crime.
  • Her sentence was given on June 25 and caused public outrage in Somalia.
  • Former Somali president Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and former prime minister Hassan Ali Khaire condemned the sentence.
  • Human rights groups say this case is part of a wider problem of harassment and discrimination against women activists in Somalia.
  • Ali has been in custody since April 12 and reported being tortured and threatened by police while detained.
  • Her lawyers have appealed the verdict, calling the sentence harsh and unjust.
  • Somali authorities have faced accusations since 2022 of cracking down on journalists and activists through arrests and intimidation.
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Billionaire Leon Black expected to testify Friday before House Epstein panel

Billionaire Leon Black expected to testify Friday before House Epstein panel

Summary

Billionaire Leon Black is scheduled to testify before a U.S. House committee investigating Jeffrey Epstein. Black has paid Epstein about $170 million for tax and estate advice, but questions remain about the payments and their relationship.

Key Facts

  • Leon Black paid Jeffrey Epstein around $170 million between 2012 and 2017.
  • Payments were reportedly for tax advice and estate planning.
  • Senator Ron Wyden has asked the House Oversight Committee to question Black about these payments.
  • Black’s attorneys say there is no credible evidence he knew about Epstein’s crimes.
  • An internal investigation found Black believed Epstein was talented and saved him money.
  • Emails show Epstein helped Black with personal matters, including a secret agreement involving a former Russian model.
  • Epstein suggested using former law enforcement officers to deliver messages related to that agreement.
  • Black is one of several wealthy individuals testifying before the House Oversight Committee about Epstein.
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World Cup Tourists See What Too Many Americans Have Forgotten

World Cup Tourists See What Too Many Americans Have Forgotten

Summary

Visitors from many countries are enjoying their time in the United States during the 2026 World Cup. These tourists are amazed by everyday things that Americans usually take for granted, like large homes, popular restaurants, and wide shopping stores, showing a different view of America than what some public polls suggest.

Key Facts

  • The 2026 World Cup is hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
  • Many international soccer fans are sharing positive experiences about America on social media.
  • A German fan named Freddy has become popular for his enthusiastic posts about American culture and places.
  • Visitors have expressed surprise and delight over common American features such as Waffle House, Taco Bell, and large football stadiums.
  • Some tourists see American abundance and friendliness, contrasting with negative opinions often shown in polls and media.
  • The Transportation Security Administration joked about tourists discovering ranch dressing and packing it to take home.
  • The article suggests that outsiders help Americans appreciate their country’s achievements and lifestyle.
  • It reminds readers that the United States remains a leading nation in economy, military, and culture.
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