The Actual News - Just the Facts

Zelensky stripped of highest Polish honour over WW2 name of army unit

June 19, 2026 • World • BBC World

Summary

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky was stripped of Poland's highest honor, the Order of the White Eagle, because Ukraine named a military unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), a group controversial for actions during World War II. Poland views the UPA as responsible for the killing of many ethnic Poles, while many Ukrainians see the UPA as heroes fighting for their country's independence.

Key Facts

President Zelensky received the Order of the White Eagle from Polish President Andrzej Duda in 2023.
Poland removed the honor after Ukraine named a military unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA).
The UPA fought during World War II and is seen by many Ukrainians as freedom fighters against Soviet, Nazi, and Polish forces.
Poland accuses the UPA of carrying out a genocide against ethnic Poles in the Volhynia region in 1943-45, with about 100,000 Poles killed.
Polish President Karol Nawrocki called Ukraine’s decision to honor the UPA "outrageous" and "deeply disappointing."
Despite the dispute, Poland says it will continue supporting Ukraine against Russia.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned Poland's decision as a "strategic mistake" and said it benefits Russia.
Ukraine aims to join the European Union and is involved in early membership talks.

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BBC World BBC Top Stories

James Burrows, director of classic sitcoms including 'Cheers' and 'Friends,' dies at 85

June 19, 2026 • World • PBS NewsHour

Summary

James Burrows, a well-known TV director behind many popular comedy shows like "Cheers" and "Friends," died at age 85. His family said he passed away peacefully with them present, but did not say where or how.

Key Facts

James Burrows directed over 1,000 episodes of classic TV sitcoms.
He co-created "Cheers" and directed most of its episodes.
He directed all episodes of "Will and Grace" and many episodes of "Friends" and "Frasier."
Burrows began his TV directing career in 1974 at age 35.
He directed pilots for shows like "Two and a Half Men" and "The Big Bang Theory."
Burrows believed great comedy combines a good script, strong acting, and actors’ chemistry.
His family praised his kindness and how he made people around him feel valued.
Born in 1940, he grew up in New York and studied drama at Yale before working in TV.

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PBS NewsHour

Does Trump have to submit the Iran memorandum of understanding to Congress?

June 19, 2026 • Us • Al Jazeera

Summary

President Donald Trump faces calls from lawmakers and pro-Israel groups to submit a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Iran to Congress for review under the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act (INARA). This 2015 law requires any US agreements related to Iran’s nuclear program to be sent to Congress for possible approval or rejection.

Key Facts

The Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act (INARA) was passed in 2015 during President Obama’s administration.
INARA requires the president to send any nuclear-related agreement with Iran to Congress within five days.
Congress then has 30 days to review the agreement and can vote to disapprove it, but a presidential veto can be overridden only by a two-thirds majority in both chambers.
The law prohibits the president from easing Iran-related sanctions during the congressional review period.
President Trump’s current memorandum of understanding includes lifting some sanctions and stopping fighting involving Iran and Israel.
Trump has expressed openness to submitting the agreement to Congress but has not done so yet.
Some lawmakers, including Senator Lindsey Graham, demand the MoU be reviewed as required by INARA.
Critics question whether Congress’s push to review the MoU is genuine or aims to legitimize or oppose the deal for political reasons.

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Al Jazeera

WATCH: Trump unveils new Air Force One plane gifted by Qatar at Joint Base Andrews

June 19, 2026 • Us • PBS NewsHour

Summary

President Donald Trump revealed a new Air Force One jet at Andrews Air Force Base. The plane, previously owned by Qatar, was redesigned and upgraded to serve as the official presidential aircraft.

Key Facts

The new Air Force One was originally a Qatar-owned jumbo jet.
It was converted into the official plane for the U.S. president.
The plane’s exterior has changed from light blue to navy blue with a red stripe.
The presidential seal is painted on the side where the president boards.
A large American flag is displayed on the plane’s tail.
President Trump described the plane as a “flying White House” with luxury features.
The unveiling took place at Andrews Air Force Base with Air Force personnel present.
“God Bless the USA” was played during the event as President Trump exited the plane.

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PBS NewsHour

Strait of Hormuz feels tense and uncertain as peace deal takes hold

June 19, 2026 • World • The Hill

Summary

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow but important waterway where tensions have risen due to recent conflict. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced it was closed, making it difficult for ships to pass, which affects global trade and raises concerns about safety and stability in the region.

Key Facts

The Strait of Hormuz is a key passage for ships transporting goods, especially oil.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed during the ongoing conflict.
This closure has caused many ship captains to avoid crossing the strait for safety reasons.
The situation in the strait has caused concern worldwide because it affects global oil supply.
The area has become tense and uncertain as peace efforts are trying to take effect.
The strait's status is important because it is a narrow passage linking major bodies of water.
Control over the strait offers significant strategic and economic power.
The conflict and closure have disrupted normal shipping routes and impacted global markets.

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The Hill

US announces new round of Israel-Lebanon talks in Washington next week

June 19, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

The United States is hosting new talks between Israel and Lebanon in Washington next week to work toward peace and economic recovery. These talks follow a recent ceasefire but have not yet included Hezbollah, a group involved in ongoing conflict with Israel.

Key Facts

The US State Department announced talks between Israel and Lebanon will happen on June 23 and 25 in Washington, DC.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun about the upcoming talks.
This series of talks is the first direct contact between Israel and Lebanon since 1993.
Israel and Lebanon have paused fighting after meetings in April and June, but Hezbollah has not joined the talks.
Recent violence has caused many deaths in southern Lebanon, despite the ceasefire.
Lebanon’s government wants Hezbollah to disarm and is pushing for Israel to withdraw from southern Lebanon.
A US-Iran agreement aims to protect Lebanon’s territory and sovereignty but has been threatened by recent conflicts.
President Donald Trump criticized Israel for actions that undermine the peace process.

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Al Jazeera

DOJ snubs judge’s demand on anti-weaponization fund, cites ‘serious separation of powers concerns’

June 19, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

The Justice Department refused a federal judge’s order to confirm the end of a nearly $1.8 billion fund aimed at preventing weapon misuse. The DOJ said the judge’s request raised important issues about the balance of power between branches of government.

Key Facts

A federal judge, Leonie Brinkema, blocked a $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund last Friday.
The judge required the acting Attorney General, Treasury Secretary, and Associate Attorney to confirm the fund was ended within seven days.
The Justice Department declined to comply with the judge’s demand.
The DOJ stated the judge’s order raised serious concerns about separation of powers, meaning the limits and roles of branches of government.
The anti-weaponization fund was set up to prevent misuse of weapons but was stopped by the court.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent are involved in managing the fund.
The dispute highlights tension between the judiciary and executive branches.

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The Hill

Man whose life sentence was commuted by Kristi Noem faces charges in teen's death

June 19, 2026 • Us • ABC News

Summary

A South Dakota man named Mark Milk, whose life sentence for manslaughter was reduced by Governor Kristi Noem, has been charged in connection with the death of 14-year-old McKenna Wendel. Authorities accuse him of transporting a minor for criminal sexual activity, possessing drugs linked to McKenna’s death, and trying to hide evidence.

Key Facts

Mark Milk’s original life sentence for manslaughter was commuted by then-Governor Kristi Noem.
McKenna Wendel, 14, was reported missing in mid-March 2026 and found dead near Brookings, South Dakota.
Milk faces federal charges for transporting a minor, drug possession linked to McKenna’s death, and conspiracy to destroy evidence.
Another man, Jon Rogness, is charged with helping Milk avoid prosecution.
The case is handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Iowa.
McKenna died from a drug overdose around March 14, according to the indictment.
McKenna was a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, and Milk is reported to be her uncle.
Multiple law enforcement agencies from Iowa and South Dakota worked on the investigation.

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ABC News

6/19: The Takeout with Major Garrett

June 19, 2026 • World • CBS News

Summary

Israel and the group Hezbollah have agreed to stop fighting in Lebanon. There are new problems with the Reflecting Pool, even after President Trump recently renovated it.

Key Facts

Israel and Hezbollah reached a ceasefire in Lebanon.
The ceasefire means both sides agreed to stop fighting.
The Reflecting Pool has some new issues.
President Trump recently completed renovations on the Reflecting Pool.
The situation in Lebanon is part of ongoing regional tensions.
The Reflecting Pool is a well-known site that required repair or improvements.
The news was reported by CBS News on June 19.

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CBS News

Italian Prime Minister says she didn’t ‘beg’ Trump for G7 photograph

June 19, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni denied President Donald Trump’s claim that she begged him for a photo at the G7 summit. She shared a video saying she was surprised by the claim and stated that neither she nor Italy would beg.

Key Facts

The event took place at the G7 summit involving world leaders.
President Trump said Meloni begged for a photo with him.
Meloni responded by posting a video denying this claim.
She said she was “stunned” by Trump’s statement.
Meloni emphasized that she and Italy do not beg for anything.
The disagreement is about how their interaction at the photo opportunity was described.
This involves leaders from Italy and the United States.

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Al Jazeera

Israel kills ‘a child a day’ on average in Gaza despite ceasefire, UN says

June 19, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Since a ceasefire was declared in October 2025, at least one Palestinian child has been killed each day in Gaza, according to the United Nations children's agency, UNICEF. Despite the truce, Israeli attacks continue, causing many deaths and injuries among children and worsening the humanitarian situation.

Key Facts

At least 265 Palestinian children have been killed in Gaza since the ceasefire began in October 2025.
More than 400 children have been injured, many with serious wounds.
Children have died in homes, schools, and public places, including while playing or fishing.
Israeli forces continue to carry out attacks despite the ceasefire, exposing its failure to protect civilians.
Medical supplies and access to treatment are limited due to Israeli restrictions, increasing health risks for wounded children.
UNICEF describes the psychological impact on Gaza’s children as severe and long-lasting due to constant fear and violence.
Since fighting escalated on March 2, at least 247 children have died and 992 have been injured in Lebanon.
Palestinian authorities report over 73,000 Palestinians killed and 173,000 wounded since the conflict started in October 2023.

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Al Jazeera

Judge won't block DOJ from releasing Biden conversations with biographer

June 19, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

A federal judge allowed the Justice Department to release redacted transcripts and recordings of President Biden's conversations with his biographer from several years ago to a conservative group, the Heritage Foundation. President Biden's lawyers asked the court to block the release while they appeal, citing privacy concerns.

Key Facts

A federal judge ruled the Justice Department can share redacted records of President Biden's past talks with biographer Mark Zwonitzer.
The Heritage Foundation requested these materials under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
The conversations are from around 2016-2017 and were used for Biden's 2017 memoir.
The Justice Department made large parts of the records private before sharing.
Judge Dabney Friedrich said public interest outweighs Biden’s privacy in this case.
President Biden’s legal team asked for an emergency pause on the release while appealing.
The dispute relates to a report by Robert Hur about Biden’s handling of government records, which cited the conversations.
A separate lawsuit is underway about sharing the audio recordings with the House Judiciary Committee.

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CBS News

George W. Bush gifts Michelle Obama mints in an ode to their friendship

June 19, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

At the opening ceremony of the Obama Presidential Center, former President George W. Bush gave former First Lady Michelle Obama a tin of Altoids mints. This gift recalled a friendly moment they shared in 2018 during Senator John McCain’s funeral when Bush quietly passed Obama a cough drop or mint.

Key Facts

George W. Bush gave Michelle Obama Altoids mints at the Obama Presidential Center opening in Chicago.
This referenced a moment in 2018 when Bush gave Obama a cough drop during John McCain’s funeral.
Michelle Obama and Bush have a friendly relationship and often sit together at official events.
Bush described the moment as a simple, kind gesture and called their friendship special despite political differences.
The event included other former presidents and first ladies, like Bill and Hillary Clinton and Joe and Jill Biden.
The public reaction showed interest in their friendship as it crosses political lines.
Bush confirmed in an interview that the item he handed Obama was an Altoid mint, not just a cough drop.
Michelle Obama expressed affection and appreciation for Bush’s kindness and sense of humor.

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CBS News

Judge rejects Biden's attempt to halt release of special counsel inquiry transcripts

June 19, 2026 • Us • PBS NewsHour

Summary

A federal judge denied President Biden's request to stop the release of recordings made with a ghostwriter. The recordings, part of a special counsel's investigation, will be released to a conservative group after the judge ruled public interest is more important than Biden's privacy claims.

Key Facts

The recordings were made by President Biden with a ghostwriter.
Special counsel Robert Hur obtained them while investigating classified documents Biden kept as senator and vice president.
Republicans asked for the recordings after Hur decided not to charge Biden.
Biden’s administration refused to release the recordings, leading to a contempt charge against Attorney General Merrick Garland by Republicans.
President Trump’s Department of Justice allowed the release of the recordings.
President Biden sued to block the release, citing privacy concerns about sensitive personal topics.
The judge ruled that sensitive content was redacted and the recordings do not mention illness, death, or non-public family members.
Biden’s team plans to appeal the ruling to stop the release.

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PBS NewsHour

Trump unveils Qatari-gifted jet serving as new Air Force One

June 19, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

President Donald Trump revealed a new Air Force One plane on Friday. The jet is a Boeing 747-8 and was donated by the country of Qatar.

Key Facts

The new Air Force One is a Boeing 747-8 model.
Qatar gifted the jet to the United States.
The plane is valued at $400 million.
President Trump officially unveiled the jet on a Friday.
This plane will serve as the new Air Force One, the official aircraft for the U.S. president.

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CBS News

Biden’s bid to block release of recordings made with ghostwriter fails

June 19, 2026 • Us • Guardian US

Summary

A federal judge rejected President Biden’s request to stop the release of recordings he made with a ghostwriter. The judge said the public’s right to know was more important than Biden’s privacy concerns. The recordings are part of an investigation into whether Biden kept classified documents improperly.

Key Facts

The judge, Dabney Friedrich, ruled against President Biden’s attempt to block the release.
The recordings were made in 2017 with a ghostwriter.
Special counsel Robert Hur obtained these recordings during his probe into Biden’s handling of classified documents.
Republicans in Congress wanted the recordings after Hur decided not to press charges against Biden.
Biden’s administration refused to hand over the recordings, causing Republicans to hold Attorney General Merrick Garland in contempt.
The Department of Justice under President Trump allowed the recordings to be released.
Biden argued the release would invade his privacy because the recordings included personal topics like the death of his son.
The judge said sensitive personal information was removed and the recordings do not talk about private family matters.
Biden’s team is appealing the decision to stop the release while the legal process continues.

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Guardian US

UK's top data and AI regulator quits after 'inappropriate' humour

June 19, 2026 • Technology • BBC Tech

Summary

John Edwards, the UK's information commissioner responsible for regulating AI and data protection, has resigned following an investigation into his workplace behavior. The inquiry found that his inappropriate attempts at humor had caused offense, leading to his resignation from the post he held since 2022.

Key Facts

John Edwards served as the UK's information commissioner since early 2022.
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) regulates AI, data protection, and freedom of information laws in the UK.
An independent investigation found Edwards made inappropriate, offensive comments described as poor judgment and unacceptable behavior.
Several women reported feeling shocked and uncomfortable due to his language in workplace interactions.
Edwards stepped back from his duties in February during the investigation and resigned effective immediately in June 2026.
The ICO board and executive team are leading the organization after his resignation.
The ICO has faced criticism over how it handles public data protection complaints, with some groups calling for stronger enforcement.
Edwards said he was proud of his and ICO staff’s contributions but accepted that his position was no longer sustainable.

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BBC Tech

Trump unveils new plane for Air Force One, a gift from Qatar

June 19, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

President Donald Trump showed a new Air Force One airplane that was given as a gift from Qatar. The plane is a renovated Boeing jet and is said to fly farther and faster than previous presidential planes.

Key Facts

President Trump revealed the new Air Force One plane on Friday.
The plane was a gift from the country of Qatar.
It is a renovated Boeing aircraft.
The unveiling took place at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland.
The plane is expected to fly further and faster than past Air Force One planes.
President Trump described the plane as unique and the best of its kind.
Air Force One is the official airplane used by the U.S. President.

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The Hill

Ebola: healthworkers worry for their life

June 19, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

The World Health Organization (WHO) says the Ebola outbreak is spreading quickly despite efforts to stop it. Health workers are concerned about their safety while treating patients in affected areas.

Key Facts

The Ebola outbreak is getting worse and spreading fast.
Health workers fear for their lives while working with Ebola patients.
WHO is warning about the serious situation caused by Ebola.
The report comes from a program called "Eye on Africa."
Other news mentioned includes drone strikes in Sudan and African designers showcased in Paris.

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France24

Poland strips Zelensky of country's highest honour, escalating World War II-era row

June 19, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

Poland’s President Karol Nawrocki took away Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s highest award because Zelensky named a Ukrainian army unit after a group involved in massacres of Poles during World War II. This has increased tensions between Poland and Ukraine, though Poland has been a key ally to Ukraine during the Russian invasion.

Key Facts

Poland’s President Karol Nawrocki revoked the Order of the White Eagle from President Zelensky.
Zelensky named a Ukrainian military unit after a World War II insurgent group linked to massacres of Polish civilians.
The decision has caused a diplomatic dispute between Poland and Ukraine.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk asked both countries not to damage their strong alliance.
Poland has supported Ukraine by accepting refugees and serving as a logistics hub amid the Russian invasion.
The historical conflict relates to killings by the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) in the 1940s.
Ukraine called Poland’s move a "strategic mistake" that benefits Russia.
Poland is hosting the Ukraine Recovery Conference soon, but Zelensky’s attendance is uncertain due to the conflict.

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France24

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