The Actual News

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

Latest News

Recent developments and breaking news

No fuel for sale as Ukraine's blockade of Russian-occupied Crimea takes effect

No fuel for sale as Ukraine's blockade of Russian-occupied Crimea takes effect

Summary

Fuel sales to the public have stopped in Crimea, a region controlled by Russia but internationally recognized as part of Ukraine, due to a decree by Russian-installed authorities. This follows Ukraine's attacks on bridges and oil facilities, causing fuel shortages, power cuts, and restrictions on daily life in Crimea.

Key Facts

  • Russian-installed leader Sergei Aksyonov ordered all fuel sales to the public in Crimea to stop, reserving fuel mainly for government use.
  • Crimea has faced power blackouts and fuel shortages, leading many residents to reduce car use or buy generators they cannot fuel.
  • Ukraine has targeted key bridges linking Crimea with occupied areas and Russia, damaging supply routes.
  • Satellite images show Russia installed temporary pontoon bridges, causing vehicle traffic jams that Ukraine has further attacked.
  • Fuel prices in Crimea have risen sharply, with residents paying about 50% more than average Russian petrol prices before sales were halted.
  • Shops report panic buying and shortages of everyday items like sugar.
  • Public transport, shops, and cafes have limited operating hours, and street lights have been turned off at night in parts of Crimea.
  • Children's summer camps popular with Russian visitors have been closed, and some trains transporting children to these camps were stopped partway.
Read the Original

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

A curious crossover: The Toyota C-HR review

A curious crossover: The Toyota C-HR review

Summary

Toyota has released the electric C-HR, a smaller SUV compared to its bZ4x model. The C-HR features a twin-motor all-wheel-drive system, modern interior controls, and sporty styling, making it distinct from Toyota’s other electric SUVs.

Key Facts

  • The C-HR is approximately 6.7 inches shorter than the Toyota bZ4x but has similar width.
  • It is powered by a twin-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 338 horsepower with a 74.7 kWh battery.
  • The starting price for the C-HR is about $37,000, which is nearly $3,000 less than a similarly powered bZ model.
  • The interior includes a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and many physical buttons for ease of use.
  • Rear seat space is modest, with some rear headroom reduced by an optional panoramic glass roof.
  • There is only one 15W USB-C port in the back, while the front has two 60W ports.
  • Toyota offers heated seats in the front and heated rear seats in the higher-end C-HR XSE model.
  • The vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 4.9 seconds, matching Toyota’s other AWD electric vehicles.
Read the Original

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

Searing UK heat leaves schools, hospitals and transport networks struggling to cope

Searing UK heat leaves schools, hospitals and transport networks struggling to cope

Summary

The UK is experiencing a severe heatwave with record-high temperatures causing problems for schools, hospitals, and transport services. Similar extreme heat is affecting several countries in Western Europe, leading to health warnings and disruptions.

Key Facts

  • Temperatures in the UK reached 34.6°C in Surrey, with forecasts up to 39°C breaking June records.
  • Schools in southern England and Wales closed or shortened days to protect students.
  • Rail services slowed down to prevent track damage, and some hospital appointments were cancelled due to high demand.
  • The UK Met Office issued a rare red heat warning indicating risks to even healthy people.
  • Other parts of Europe, including France, Spain, and Germany, are also facing record heat and related deaths from drowning.
  • The heatwave is worsened by climate change, adding 2 to 4°C to temperatures.
  • The UN secretary-general said London was “cooking” and called the situation a climate and energy crisis.
  • People are advised to stay hydrated, stay in shade, and care for vulnerable individuals during the heat.
Read the Original

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

Burnham and Starmer hold ‘frosty’ meeting to thrash out transition of power

Burnham and Starmer hold ‘frosty’ meeting to thrash out transition of power

Summary

Keir Starmer and Andy Burnham met in a tense meeting to discuss the transition of power. Starmer agreed Burnham could start talks with the civil service but wants to limit the transition period before handing over leadership.

Key Facts

  • Keir Starmer and Andy Burnham met for about an hour to discuss Burnham taking over leadership.
  • The meeting was described as “frosty” and showed strained relations between the two leaders.
  • Starmer agreed Burnham can talk with the civil service to prepare for leading the government.
  • There is tension because Burnham ousted Starmer in the Makerfield byelection.
  • Burnham wanted a longer transition period but was restrained to a shorter timeframe of about three weeks.
  • Starmer plans to resolve key issues and publish the defense investment plan before leaving office.
  • Starmer’s team will not make major new policy or spending decisions that might limit Burnham’s future options.
  • Burnham’s team includes experienced political figures and plans to review Labour’s current policies and manifesto.
Read the Original

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

Air conditioning for all? France divided over response to record-breaking heatwave

Air conditioning for all? France divided over response to record-breaking heatwave

Summary

France is experiencing record-breaking heatwaves that are causing problems for many people, especially those living in old apartments without air conditioning. A national debate has started about whether everyone should have air conditioning, with some political groups supporting it to protect health and others worried about environmental impacts and fairness.

Key Facts

  • France hit its hottest night ever, with people in cities struggling in old buildings not designed for extreme heat.
  • Heatwaves in France have become more frequent since 2010.
  • There is a heat dome causing long-lasting high temperatures across western Europe.
  • Hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and social housing are seen as priority places to get cooling systems.
  • Some politicians, including far-right groups, support widespread air conditioning access.
  • Critics argue that air conditioning can increase outdoor temperatures and may not be fair or sustainable for everyone.
  • The government and experts are discussing how to help people who cannot afford expensive cooling solutions.
  • The debate involves questions of public health, environmental impact, affordability, and social fairness.
Read the Original

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

2 dead in Northern California library shooting

2 dead in Northern California library shooting

Summary

An 18-year-old man named Bradley Scott Sayer was arrested after a shooting at a library in Chico, Northern California, which killed two people and injured one child. Police said the suspect aimed to copy the 1999 Columbine school attack and acted alone.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened just after 5 p.m. at the Butte County Library in Chico, California.
  • Two people were killed, and one child was taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
  • The suspect, Bradley Scott Sayer, fled the scene but was caught by police.
  • Sayer is charged with two counts of murder and is being held in Butte County Jail.
  • Police said Sayer wanted to do a shooting similar to the 1999 Columbine massacre.
  • The suspect wore clothing similar to one of the Columbine shooters and is linked to an online group related to mass killers.
  • The police believe Sayer acted alone and do not believe there is a continuing threat to the public.
  • All branches of the Butte County Library were closed the day after the shooting while investigations continue.
Read the Original

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

From us

Pay what you want

We're reader-funded instead of ad-funded. You decide what no-spin news is worth.

GOP senator forced out by Trump pushes $1.5T investment for Social Security

GOP senator forced out by Trump pushes $1.5T investment for Social Security

Summary

Senator Bill Cassidy, who lost his primary election to a candidate supported by President Donald Trump, is promoting a plan to invest $1.5 trillion into Social Security before he leaves the Senate. This comes after the Trump administration reported that Social Security may run out of money to pay full benefits in about seven years.

Key Facts

  • Senator Bill Cassidy from Louisiana lost his GOP primary to a Trump-backed challenger.
  • Cassidy wants to reform Social Security before his Senate term ends.
  • The Trump administration projected Social Security funds will be insufficient to pay full benefits in seven years.
  • Cassidy’s plan includes a $1.5 trillion investment to sustain the program.
  • Social Security is a government program that provides financial help to retirees and disabled people.
  • Cassidy spoke about his plan in an interview with CNBC.
  • His effort highlights concerns about the future of Social Security funding.
Read the Original

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

Fans Think 'Better Than The Movies’ Wes Bennett is Cast - Here’s Why

Fans Think 'Better Than The Movies’ Wes Bennett is Cast - Here’s Why

Summary

Fans of the young-adult novel "Better Than the Movies" believe that social media personality Wyatt Aube has been cast as the lead character Wes Bennett in the upcoming Netflix adaptation. There is no official announcement yet, but Aube’s recent social media posts have sparked speculation and excitement among fans.

Key Facts

  • "Better Than the Movies" is a popular young-adult novel by Lynn Painter.
  • Netflix is making a film adaptation directed by Julia Hart.
  • Fans think Wyatt Aube, a model and social media personality, will play Wes Bennett.
  • Aube shared mysterious Instagram posts related to the book, increasing fan speculation.
  • Lynn Painter’s official Instagram page follows Aube’s account.
  • Aube received comments suggesting he is Wes Bennett, which he responded to with a hint.
  • No official casting announcement has been made yet.
  • Other actors like Jack Champion and Charlie Bushnell are also popular fan choices for Wes Bennett.
Read the Original

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

Senate again set to vote on war powers resolution to halt Iran conflict

Senate again set to vote on war powers resolution to halt Iran conflict

Summary

The U.S. Senate will vote again on a resolution to limit war powers related to military actions against Iran. This follows President Donald Trump’s efforts to negotiate an end to the conflict and requests for Congress to fund ongoing military costs.

Key Facts

  • The Senate is holding its 10th vote on a resolution to block U.S. military action against Iran.
  • Previous attempts to pass the resolution have all failed due to Senate voting outcomes.
  • President Trump signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Iran, starting a 60-day period to finalize a broader deal on Iran’s nuclear program.
  • The Pentagon is asking Congress for about $80 billion to fund military supplies and costs related to the Iran conflict.
  • Some Republican lawmakers oppose the deal, especially the $300 billion fund proposed to help Iran rebuild.
  • Democrats are pushing for these votes to challenge the Trump administration’s military actions.
  • The House passed a similar resolution earlier with some Republican support, but Senate approval is uncertain.
  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is requesting the additional war funding despite public concern over high costs and inflation.
Read the Original

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

Crimea Bridge Fortifications Seen Up Close in New Satellite Pics

Crimea Bridge Fortifications Seen Up Close in New Satellite Pics

Summary

New satellite images show Russian defenses around the Crimean Bridge, which connects Crimea to Russia. Ukraine has increased its attacks on Crimea recently, aiming to disrupt Russia’s military and fuel supplies in the region.

Key Facts

  • The Crimean Bridge links the annexed Crimean Peninsula to mainland Russia.
  • Recent satellite photos reveal Russia has placed floating buoys and nets as defenses around the bridge.
  • These defenses aim to slow down Ukrainian explosive drones and make it easier for Russian forces to stop attacks.
  • Ukraine has increased strikes on Crimea, targeting military and fuel sites that support Russia’s war efforts.
  • Crimea was annexed by Russia from Ukraine in 2014 but is still internationally recognized as part of Ukraine.
  • Russia’s defense measures around the bridge increased after an October 2022 bombing damaged the structure.
  • Ukraine wants to isolate Crimea and has struck oil sites, radars, and transportation used by Russia in the area.
  • Public life in Crimea has been restricted recently, including limits on fuel sales, outdoor events, streetlights, and transport schedules, showing the impact of Ukrainian attacks.
Read the Original

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

In Europe, Where Heat Kills More Than Guns in US, Temperatures Get Lethal

In Europe, Where Heat Kills More Than Guns in US, Temperatures Get Lethal

Summary

A severe heat wave is hitting Europe with temperatures rising above 40°C (104°F) in several countries, causing at least 40 deaths since June 18. This early and intense heat wave is breaking many temperature records and creating dangerous conditions, especially because air conditioning is less common in Europe compared to the U.S.

Key Facts

  • More than 40 deaths have been reported in Europe since June 18 due to extreme heat.
  • Europe experiences around 175,000 heat-related deaths annually, about four times the number of U.S. gun deaths.
  • Temperatures across Europe have surged past 40°C (104°F), with some areas expected to reach 45°C (113°F).
  • A high-pressure "heat dome" is causing this unusual and intense heat.
  • France broke over 120 temperature records, including its hottest day ever at 44.3°C (111.7°F) in Pissos.
  • The UK is likely to break its all-time June temperature records in the coming days.
  • Cities like Amsterdam in the Netherlands may see temperatures near 39°C (102.2°F), which is rare so far north.
  • Experts warn that Europe’s fast warming is making heat waves stronger and more frequent, posing risks especially to crowded cities with less cooling infrastructure.
Read the Original

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

Who’s being left out of the World Cup?

Who’s being left out of the World Cup?

Summary

The World Cup in North America has brought excitement but also problems like fans being denied visas, players searched by sniffer dogs, and Iran’s team having to stay outside the US. These issues are linked to President Donald Trump’s immigration policies during the global tournament.

Key Facts

  • The World Cup is taking place in North America.
  • Some fans have been denied visas to enter the US for the event.
  • Players have been searched using sniffer dogs.
  • Iran’s national team was forced to base itself outside the United States.
  • These challenges are connected to US immigration rules under President Donald Trump.
  • The article features Boima Tucker, director of operations at Africa Is a Country.
  • The piece is part of a podcast episode produced by a team including Malika Bilal and others.
  • The article highlights how a global sports event intersects with national politics and immigration.
Read the Original

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

From us

The news is free. Support if you want.

No ads. Pay what this is worth to you — most people choose $3.99/month.

U.S slaps new sanctions on Cuban companies key to island's economy

U.S slaps new sanctions on Cuban companies key to island's economy

Summary

The U.S. government has imposed new sanctions on five Cuban state companies that are key to Cuba’s economy, including those linked to the military-run conglomerate GAESA. These sanctions aim to limit foreign investment and pressure Cuba’s government by cutting off access to the U.S. financial system.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. targeted five Cuban companies, including three connected to GAESA, which controls about 40% of Cuba’s economy.
  • GAESA holds $14.5 billion in liquid reserves as of early 2024.
  • The sanctioned companies include Almacenes Universales S.A. (a major logistics and storage firm), Rafin S.A. (a financial arm of GAESA), and Banco Financiero Internacional S.A. (a bank used by foreign investors).
  • Other companies hit by sanctions are Geominera S.A. (mining) and Empresa Siderúrgica Jose Martí (steel production).
  • The daughter-in-law of former Cuban President Raúl Castro, Annalie Lilliam Rueda Cardero, was personally sanctioned.
  • Sanctions threaten foreign investors who work with these entities by risking bans or loss of access to U.S. financial services.
  • Cuban officials condemned the sanctions and said Cuba is stronger than expected despite U.S. pressure.
  • These sanctions come shortly after Cuba announced economic reforms intended to ease import restrictions for the private sector.
Read the Original

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

Supreme Court denies Rastafarian's lawsuit after he was forcibly shaved bald

Supreme Court denies Rastafarian's lawsuit after he was forcibly shaved bald

Summary

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 6-3 against a Louisiana Rastafarian man who wanted to sue prison officials for forcibly shaving his hair, which he said violated his religious beliefs. The court said the law does not allow prisoners to sue individual state employees for money damages in these cases.

Key Facts

  • Damon Landor, a Rastafarian, was shaved bald against his will while in a Louisiana prison.
  • Landor argued this violated his religious rights, as he had not cut his hair for 20 years.
  • The Supreme Court’s majority said prisoners cannot sue individual state prison officials for damages under the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA).
  • RLUIPA requires prisons receiving federal money to respect inmates’ sincere religious beliefs and allow them to sue for appropriate relief.
  • Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote that the law does not hold individual officials personally liable because they are not part of the federal funding agreements with states.
  • The ruling was seen as a victory for states, which argued allowing such lawsuits could bankrupt them.
  • Justices Ketanji Brown Jackson, Sonia Sotomayor, and Elena Kagan dissented, warning the ruling limits prisoners’ ability to seek justice for religious discrimination.
  • Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill condemned the shaving but supported the court’s decision, saying the state is taking steps to prevent future incidents.
Read the Original

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

3 money market account features for savers to take advantage of now

3 money market account features for savers to take advantage of now

Summary

A money market account offers savers higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts, helping their money grow faster without investment risks. These accounts also provide flexible access to funds and the option to write checks, making them a practical choice for managing money today.

Key Facts

  • Money market accounts currently offer interest rates close to 4%, much higher than the average 0.38% from regular savings accounts.
  • The interest rates on money market accounts can increase further if the Federal Reserve raises rates again in 2026.
  • Account holders do not need to take any action to benefit from rate increases; banks adjust rates automatically.
  • Unlike certificates of deposit (CDs), money market accounts allow easy access to funds without penalties for early withdrawal.
  • Money market accounts let users write checks, which CDs do not allow, helping simplify banking in one account.
  • CDs may offer slightly higher rates than money market accounts but limit access to funds and can charge penalties for early withdrawal.
  • Using a money market account can help savers keep up with inflation better than keeping money in a traditional savings account.
Read the Original

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

Bev Craig to stand as Labour candidate for Greater Manchester mayor

Bev Craig to stand as Labour candidate for Greater Manchester mayor

Summary

Bev Craig has been chosen as the Labour Party’s candidate to replace Andy Burnham as the mayor of Greater Manchester. The election will be held on 30 July and is expected to be closely contested, especially against the Reform UK party.

Key Facts

  • Bev Craig is currently the leader of Manchester city council and will run for Greater Manchester mayor.
  • Andy Burnham, the current mayor, is likely to run for prime minister soon and will support Labour in the election.
  • Around 2 million people can vote in this byelection, making it one of the largest in recent British history.
  • Reform UK won many local seats in Greater Manchester in recent elections, making them a strong rival in this mayoral contest.
  • Reform UK’s probable candidate is Dan Barker, who came fourth in the 2024 mayoral election.
  • The Green Party’s candidate is Geraldine Coggins, and the party hopes to compete mainly with Reform UK.
  • Restore Britain, a hardline right-wing party, plans to focus on controversial local issues like grooming gangs, with support from Elon Musk.
  • Bev Craig grew up in council housing near Belfast and is the first woman and openly gay leader of Manchester city council.
Read the Original

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

U.S. energy secretary announces $17.5 billion in loans for 10 new large nuclear reactors

U.S. energy secretary announces $17.5 billion in loans for 10 new large nuclear reactors

Summary

The U.S. Energy Department announced $17.5 billion in loans to speed up the building of 10 large nuclear reactors, aiming to meet the growing electricity demand from data centers. These reactors could start construction by 2030 and provide power by the mid-2030s using a proven Westinghouse design.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. government will offer $17.5 billion in loan financing for 10 new nuclear reactors.
  • The reactors are intended to support rising power needs from large data centers.
  • Construction is expected to begin by 2030, with reactors operational around the mid-2030s.
  • All 10 reactors will use the Westinghouse AP1000 design, which has been tested but was delayed and costly in previous projects.
  • Seven utilities and energy companies have shown interest, with five sites expected to be selected for two reactors each.
  • The loans are to help buy nuclear components and are not direct construction loans.
  • The government aims to reduce costs and speed construction compared to past nuclear projects in the U.S.
  • President Donald Trump wants to increase U.S. nuclear power production four times over the next 25 years.
  • Data centers currently use around 4-5% of the country’s electricity, a figure expected to nearly triple by 2028.
Read the Original

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

ABC asks viewers to protest FCC attempt to "control who is allowed" on The View

ABC asks viewers to protest FCC attempt to "control who is allowed" on The View

Summary

ABC is asking viewers to tell the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to stop trying to control who can appear on the talk show The View. The FCC, led by Chairman Brendan Carr, is reviewing whether The View qualifies as a bona fide news program, which affects whether it must follow rules offering equal time to political candidates.

Key Facts

  • ABC aired a commercial urging viewers to comment to the FCC about The View’s status as a news program.
  • The FCC has historically classified shows like The View as bona fide news, exempting them from equal-time political rules.
  • The View received this news exemption in 2002 during President George W. Bush’s administration.
  • FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has started a proceeding to reconsider this exemption for The View, which could require the show to offer equal airtime to opposing political candidates.
  • This action came after The View interviewed Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico.
  • Carr has also warned broadcast stations against using talk shows for partisan political purposes and has opened a review of Disney’s TV station licenses.
  • ABC and Disney claim the FCC’s actions are politically motivated and an attempt to punish their editorial choices.
  • The FCC said ABC’s ad contains misinformation but has not specified what part.
Read the Original

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

From us

No ads. Just the news.

It's free for everyone. If it's useful, support us at a price that feels right.

Tillis: Pirro can’t be taken ‘seriously’ for prosecuting alleged reflecting pool vandalism

Tillis: Pirro can’t be taken ‘seriously’ for prosecuting alleged reflecting pool vandalism

Summary

Senator Thom Tillis criticized U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro for saying she would fully prosecute people accused of damaging the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool. This comes after President Donald Trump gave pardons last year to those convicted in connection with the January 6 Capitol attack.

Key Facts

  • Senator Thom Tillis represents North Carolina as a Republican.
  • U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro threatened to prosecute people accused of vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool.
  • The vandalism is related to events around January 6, 2021, when the U.S. Capitol was attacked.
  • President Donald Trump issued pardons to people convicted of crimes tied to the January 6 attack.
  • Tillis said it is hard to take Pirro seriously in her prosecution threats because of the pardons.
  • The Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool was reportedly damaged during January 6 events.
  • Pirro’s comments suggest she intends to use all legal options against vandalism suspects.
Read the Original

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

WATCH:  Travel blogger documents journey on cruise ship with hantavirus outbreak

WATCH: Travel blogger documents journey on cruise ship with hantavirus outbreak

Summary

A travel blogger named Jake Rosamarin shared his experience during a hantavirus outbreak on the cruise ship MV Hondius. He went into voluntary quarantine while on the ship and described what happened during the incident.

Key Facts

  • The outbreak involved hantavirus, a rare virus that can cause serious lung disease.
  • Jake Rosamarin is a travel blogger who was on the MV Hondius cruise ship.
  • He chose to quarantine himself voluntarily during the outbreak.
  • The events took place on a cruise ship, which is a passenger ship used for vacations.
  • The situation raised concerns about health and safety onboard cruise ships.
  • Hantavirus can spread through contact with rodent droppings or urine.
  • The news report was shared on June 23, 2026.
  • The cruise ship MV Hondius was directly affected by the outbreak.
Read the Original

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

Save articles & personalize your feed — Create a free account