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Pete Buttigieg says family investigated over baseless child abuse allegation

Pete Buttigieg says family investigated over baseless child abuse allegation

June 26, 2026 • Us • Guardian World

Summary

Pete Buttigieg said Child Protective Services (CPS) investigated his family because of an anonymous and false accusation of child abuse. The accusation was found to be baseless, and officials said it was politically motivated.

Key Facts

  • Pete Buttigieg and his husband were separated from their four-year-old twins for 24 hours while CPS and police investigated.
  • The investigation followed an anonymous report to CPS, which police and social workers later confirmed was false.
  • The false claim involved a woman alleging Buttigieg confessed to violent crimes at a conference in Alabama, which Buttigieg denies and says never happened.
  • Officials from Michigan state police stated false reports waste time and resources meant for real emergencies.
  • Buttigieg called the accusation a "politically motivated hoax" and linked it to recent family photos he shared on social media.
  • The incident caused emotional distress for Buttigieg and his family.
  • Buttigieg is a former U.S. transportation secretary and may consider running for president in 2028.
  • The police and CPS responded promptly, and the threat to the children was quickly ruled out.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Trump threatens 100% tariff on European nations over tech tax

Trump threatens 100% tariff on European nations over tech tax

June 26, 2026 • Us • BBC Business

Summary

President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 100% import tariff on any European country that introduces a new digital services tax on American tech companies. He said these tariffs would take effect immediately and override existing trade agreements.

Key Facts

  • President Trump shared his threat on Truth Social, targeting European nations planning new digital taxes.
  • The tariffs would be a 100% tax on all goods imported from countries that implement such digital services taxes.
  • Existing UK digital services tax, set at 2%, has been in place since April 2020.
  • The UK tax applies to tech firms like Apple, Google, Meta, and Amazon with large international and UK revenues.
  • The UK’s digital tax raised over £800 million in 2024-25, up from £678 million the previous year.
  • The U.S. has previously introduced tariffs on countries over issues like forced labor.
  • President Trump’s administration has announced several new import tariffs recently after some earlier tariffs were removed by the U.S. Supreme Court.
  • The specific impact on the UK is uncertain because its tax has been in place for some time already.
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BBC Business BBC Top Stories
Burkina Faso ruling junta cuts diplomatic ties with ex-ruler France

Burkina Faso ruling junta cuts diplomatic ties with ex-ruler France

June 26, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

Burkina Faso's military government cut diplomatic ties with France, accusing it of interfering in the country's affairs and supporting harmful groups. The junta has been distancing itself from Western countries since it took power in a 2022 coup led by Captain Ibrahim Traore.

Key Facts

  • Burkina Faso's military junta ended diplomatic relations with France on June 26, 2026.
  • The government accused France of working against Burkina Faso’s interests and supporting terrorist and subversive groups.
  • Captain Ibrahim Traore has led the country since a coup in September 2022.
  • The decision only affects official diplomatic relations, not cultural or social ties between the two nations.
  • Burkina Faso and neighboring countries have faced violent attacks by jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and ISIS for about ten years.
  • Anti-French feelings are rising in some African countries amid growing Russian and Chinese influence.
  • France has a long history of involvement in Africa, including military actions and economic influence since the 1960s.
  • France has pledged to end its "Francafrique" policy, which involved political control and economic privileges in former colonies.
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France24
Billionaire Leon Black testifies on Epstein payments, told to return under subpoena

Billionaire Leon Black testifies on Epstein payments, told to return under subpoena

June 26, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

Billionaire Leon Black testified before the House Oversight Committee about payments he made to Jeffrey Epstein. After his testimony, the committee issued two subpoenas and asked Black to return for further questioning.

Key Facts

  • Leon Black is a billionaire who testified before a U.S. House committee.
  • The testimony focused on payments Black made to Jeffrey Epstein.
  • The House Oversight Committee conducted the interview.
  • After the interview, the committee issued two subpoenas, which are legal orders to appear and provide information.
  • The committee instructed Black to come back for additional questions.
  • Democratic Representative Suhas Subramanyam of Virginia, a committee member, spoke publicly about the event.
  • The testimony is part of a broader congressional investigation.
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CBS News
Comer subpoenas Leon Black after his refusal to answer some Epstein questions

Comer subpoenas Leon Black after his refusal to answer some Epstein questions

June 26, 2026 • Us • ABC News

Summary

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer has issued subpoenas to billionaire Leon Black after Black refused to answer questions about nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) related to Jeffrey Epstein during a private committee interview. The subpoenas require Black to appear for a deposition on July 16 and to provide the NDAs as part of the committee's investigation into Epstein and related matters.

Key Facts

  • Leon Black appeared before the House Oversight Committee for a closed-door interview about Jeffrey Epstein.
  • Black refused to answer questions regarding NDAs, saying he was not allowed to discuss their terms.
  • Chairman James Comer issued two subpoenas to Black: one for a deposition on July 16 and one to produce the NDAs.
  • The committee wants to know if Epstein was involved in the NDAs, their terms, and any payments related to them.
  • Representative Robert Garcia, a committee member, supports the subpoenas, stating the NDAs are crucial for understanding the case.
  • Black’s attorney claims the subpoenas were a political move and denies Epstein's involvement in the NDAs.
  • Black had a social relationship with Epstein since the mid-1990s and paid him over $170 million for financial services.
  • The investigation is part of a wider probe into Epstein and his connections with wealthy and powerful individuals.
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ABC News
Watch: Native Americans mark 150th anniversary of Little Bighorn victory

Watch: Native Americans mark 150th anniversary of Little Bighorn victory

June 26, 2026 • Us • BBC US

Summary

Native American tribes held events to mark 150 years since the Battle of Little Bighorn in June 1876. During this battle, Indigenous warriors defeated US Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer and his soldiers.

Key Facts

  • The Battle of Little Bighorn is also called the Battle of Greasy Grass.
  • It took place in June 1876.
  • Native American tribes united to win the battle.
  • US Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer and over 200 of his soldiers were defeated.
  • The 150th anniversary was marked with song, dance, horse racing, and re-enactments.
  • The commemoration involved multiple Native American tribes.
  • This event is an important part of Native American history.
  • The anniversary was celebrated recently, as reported.
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BBC US
Pete Buttigieg briefly separated from children after false police report

Pete Buttigieg briefly separated from children after false police report

June 26, 2026 • Us • BBC US

Summary

Pete Buttigieg, former U.S. transportation secretary, was separated from his children after police received an anonymous safety report about him. Police and child protection services investigated and found the claim was false, possibly politically motivated.

Key Facts

  • An anonymous report claimed Buttigieg was a danger to his children.
  • Police arranged special interviews for his four-year-old twins as part of the investigation.
  • He was told not to be alone with his children until the investigation was complete.
  • Michigan State Police found no evidence supporting the claim and called it false.
  • The false report caused Buttigieg emotional distress and concern for his family.
  • Authorities warned that false reports waste resources that should help real emergencies.
  • Buttigieg compared the false report to "Swatting," which means falsely calling police to cause disruption.
  • Police believe the false report was politically motivated.
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BBC US BBC World
U.S. strikes Iran after it attacked a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, CENTCOM says

U.S. strikes Iran after it attacked a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, CENTCOM says

June 26, 2026 • World • CBS News

Summary

The United States carried out military strikes against Iran in the Strait of Hormuz area. This action was a response to Iran attacking a cargo ship in that region.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. military targeted Iranian forces near the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The strikes were in retaliation for an attack by Iran on a cargo ship.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway used for global shipping.
  • CENTCOM (U.S. Central Command) provided information about the strikes.
  • The incident increased tensions between the U.S. and Iran.
  • The location of the strike is a strategic area for oil transport.
  • The U.S. described its actions as a response to protect shipping and navigation.
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CBS News
Thousands of migrants flee South Africa ahead of anti-immigrant protests

Thousands of migrants flee South Africa ahead of anti-immigrant protests

June 26, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Thousands of migrants are leaving South Africa due to increasing attacks against foreigners and planned anti-immigrant protests on June 30. Several African countries, including Malawi and Zimbabwe, are helping their citizens return home by setting up support outside their consulates.

Key Facts

  • Migrants from countries like Malawi, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Ghana, and Mozambique are leaving South Africa.
  • The reason for the departures is rising xenophobic violence, which means hostility toward foreigners.
  • Anti-immigrant protests are scheduled to take place in South Africa on June 30.
  • Some migrants are waiting outside their country’s consulates to get help returning home.
  • Governments of neighboring African countries are actively repatriating their citizens.
  • The situation has caused concern about safety for foreign nationals living in South Africa.
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Al Jazeera
Prosecutor in Charlie Kirk shooting case held in contempt by judge

Prosecutor in Charlie Kirk shooting case held in contempt by judge

June 26, 2026 • Us • Guardian US

Summary

A Utah judge found a prosecutor in contempt for speaking to the media during the murder case of Charlie Kirk. The judge did not agree to remove the death penalty option but said steps would be taken to protect the fairness of the trial.

Key Facts

  • The prosecutor, Christopher Ballard, spoke to the media about the case despite a court order not to.
  • Defense lawyers said Ballard’s statements could unfairly influence the jury.
  • The judge agreed Ballard’s comments could prejudice the trial but did not remove the death penalty option.
  • The judge plans to expand the jury pool and use more detailed questionnaires to reduce bias.
  • The case involves Tyler James Robinson, accused of killing Charlie Kirk, a political activist, last September.
  • There was a dispute over whether the bullet that killed Kirk came from Robinson’s rifle.
  • Ballard said the state has enough evidence for the case and explained ballistics results did not rule out Robinson’s involvement.
  • A preliminary hearing is set for July 6, and the judge will decide soon on allowing electronic media in the courtroom.
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Guardian US
Royal Caribbean Whale Death Is Part of a Much Bigger Crisis

Royal Caribbean Whale Death Is Part of a Much Bigger Crisis

June 26, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

A Royal Caribbean cruise ship struck and killed a 61-foot endangered fin whale near Alaska, likely causing its death. This incident highlights a larger problem where thousands of whales worldwide are injured or killed each year by ships passing through their habitats.

Key Facts

  • The whale was pregnant and died from blunt-force trauma, probably from a ship collision.
  • Scientists estimate around 20,000 whales are killed by ship strikes globally each year.
  • Many whale deaths go unnoticed because whales often sink after being hit.
  • Ship traffic overlaps with whale feeding and migration areas, increasing risks.
  • Large whale species like fin whales, blue whales, humpbacks, and North Atlantic right whales are most at risk.
  • About 90% of world trade moves by sea, expanding shipping lanes through whale habitats.
  • Less than 7% of high-risk whale areas have strategies to reduce ship collisions.
  • The cruise line reported the incident to authorities and is cooperating with investigations.
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Newsweek
Venezuela earthquakes kill 920 people as families desperate for news

Venezuela earthquakes kill 920 people as families desperate for news

June 26, 2026 • World • BBC World

Summary

Two strong earthquakes hit northern Venezuela, killing at least 920 people and injuring over 3,300. Rescue teams are searching for survivors amid widespread damage to buildings and hospitals, while many families wait for news of missing loved ones.

Key Facts

  • Two earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday, including one measuring magnitude 7.5.
  • Over 900 people have died and more than 3,360 have been injured.
  • La Guaira, north of Caracas, was the hardest-hit region with extensive damage.
  • At least 172 people are still believed to be trapped under rubble.
  • More than 240 people have been rescued alive so far.
  • Hospitals and many buildings were damaged or destroyed; medical facilities are overwhelmed.
  • Around 214 aftershocks have occurred since the initial quakes.
  • International rescue teams and aid, including from the US, UK, Netherlands, Mexico, and Switzerland, are supporting Venezuela’s efforts.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
Streaming services’ obnoxiously loud ads become illegal on July 1 in California

Streaming services’ obnoxiously loud ads become illegal on July 1 in California

June 26, 2026 • Technology • Ars Technica

Summary

Starting July 1, streaming services in California cannot play ads louder than the shows or videos they accompany. This new law aims to treat streaming ads like those on traditional TV, which already have volume rules to prevent loud commercials.

Key Facts

  • California's new law (SB 576) bans streaming ads louder than the video content as of July 1, 2026.
  • Traditional TV ads are already regulated by the CALM Act to match the program volume.
  • Streaming services have not yet announced how they will follow California’s law.
  • Illinois will also require similar ad volume rules for streaming by July 1, 2027.
  • Industry groups like the Motion Picture Association opposed the bill, citing technical challenges.
  • Ads inserted by servers can have varying volumes due to different encoding methods.
  • Streaming must handle loudness control across many devices like TVs, tablets, and phones.
  • The FCC received thousands of complaints about loud TV ads from 2022 to 2024, showing ongoing viewer concern.
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Ars Technica
Burkina Faso cuts diplomatic ties with former colonial ruler France

Burkina Faso cuts diplomatic ties with former colonial ruler France

June 26, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Burkina Faso announced it is ending diplomatic relations with France on June 26, 2026. The military government in Burkina Faso accused France of interfering in its affairs and supporting groups that harm the country.

Key Facts

  • Burkina Faso cut diplomatic ties with France as of June 26, 2026.
  • The announcement was made on national television by the government.
  • The current government is led by Captain Ibrahim Traore, who came to power in a 2022 coup.
  • Burkina Faso’s government said France acts against its interests and interferes in its internal matters.
  • The government accused France of supporting networks and terrorists in Burkina Faso and the Sahel region.
  • Burkina Faso faces armed groups like al-Qaeda-linked JNIM and Islamic State Sahel Province in parts of the country.
  • The military government dissolved political parties in January 2026 and seized their assets.
  • France’s influence in Africa has decreased recently, with some countries turning toward Russia and China.
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Al Jazeera
Hezbollah Reacts to New Israel-Lebanon Deal: 'Our Hands Are on Our Weapons'

Hezbollah Reacts to New Israel-Lebanon Deal: 'Our Hands Are on Our Weapons'

June 26, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

Hezbollah said it will follow a new U.S.-supported deal between Israel and Lebanon only if Israel fully leaves Lebanese land. The group warned it will fight back if Israel stays in parts of Lebanon. The deal, signed by Israel, Lebanon, and the U.S., includes a partial Israeli military withdrawal but does not involve Hezbollah directly.

Key Facts

  • Hezbollah said it will respect the deal only if Israel completely pulls its forces out of Lebanese territory.
  • The group warned of more fighting if Israel does not fully withdraw.
  • The new agreement was signed by Israel, Lebanon, and the United States at the State Department.
  • The deal includes Israel pulling back from two areas in a “security zone” in southern Lebanon.
  • Hezbollah did not take part in the deal negotiations.
  • Lebanese and Israeli officials described the deal as a step toward peace and restoring Lebanese control of their land.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said Israel will keep some forces in a security zone as long as Hezbollah has not disarmed.
  • The deal aims to reduce Iranian and Hezbollah influence in Lebanon, according to Israeli officials.
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Newsweek
US strikes Iran in response to drone strike on commercial ship

US strikes Iran in response to drone strike on commercial ship

June 26, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

The United States struck Iranian military sites in response to an Iranian drone attack on a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz. The US views the drone strike as a violation of a recent ceasefire agreement meant to pause hostilities in the region and keep the shipping route open.

Key Facts

  • An Iranian drone hit the Singapore-flagged cargo ship Ever Lovely near the Strait of Hormuz.
  • No crew members were injured, and the ship continued its journey after the strike.
  • The US launched airstrikes on Iranian missile, drone storage, and radar sites near Sirik, Iran.
  • President Donald Trump described the drone attack as a violation of a June 17 memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the US and Iran.
  • The MOU aimed to pause military actions and ensure safe commercial passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Iran claims it neutralized the US strikes and promised a swift response at a time and place of its choosing.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a critical route for global trade, and disruptions have caused rises in fuel and fertilizer prices.
  • The ceasefire has been fragile due to ongoing conflicts between Israel and Lebanon, which Iran supports.
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Al Jazeera
US says it struck Iran targets after attack on cargo ship on the strait of Hormuz

US says it struck Iran targets after attack on cargo ship on the strait of Hormuz

June 26, 2026 • Us • Guardian World

Summary

The US military launched attacks on Iranian military targets after Iran attacked a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump said the drone attack violated the ceasefire and indicated the US would respond to the incident.

Key Facts

  • The US military struck Iranian missile and drone storage sites and coastal radar stations.
  • The strikes were carried out by US aircraft.
  • The attacks were in response to an Iranian drone attack on a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • President Donald Trump called the drone attack a violation of the ceasefire.
  • The US Central Command confirmed the strikes in an official statement.
  • President Trump hinted at a US response before the strikes took place.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for international shipping.
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Guardian World
Trump’s religious liberty report calls for building ‘bridges’ between church and state

Trump’s religious liberty report calls for building ‘bridges’ between church and state

June 26, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

President Donald Trump’s Religious Liberty Commission released a draft report that suggests creating closer connections between church and state. The report emphasizes the importance of Americans understanding and defending their religious rights.

Key Facts

  • The report comes from President Trump’s Religious Liberty Commission.
  • It proposes building "bridges" between church and state, which means closer relations.
  • This idea differs from the traditional U.S. principle of keeping church and state separate.
  • The report encourages Americans to know their religious rights.
  • It calls on people to stand up strongly when their religious rights are threatened.
  • The goal is to protect and preserve religious freedom in the country.
  • The draft was released publicly on a Friday.
  • This is part of President Trump’s broader focus on religious liberty issues.
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The Hill
US strikes Iranian missile, radar sites after Tehran hits cargo ship

US strikes Iranian missile, radar sites after Tehran hits cargo ship

June 26, 2026 • World • The Hill

Summary

The U.S. military carried out strikes on Iranian missile and drone storage sites, along with coastal radar locations. These actions occurred one day after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps attacked a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. military targeted Iranian missile and drone storage areas.
  • Coastal radar sites in Iran were also struck by U.S. forces.
  • The strikes were conducted by U.S. Central Command (Centcom).
  • These actions followed an attack by Iran on a Singapore-flagged container ship.
  • The attack took place in the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route.
  • The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran carried out the attack on the ship.
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The Hill
US conducts strikes on Iran after attack on cargo ship

US conducts strikes on Iran after attack on cargo ship

June 26, 2026 • World • BBC World

Summary

The US military carried out strikes against Iranian targets after President Donald Trump said Iran broke a ceasefire by attacking a cargo ship near the Strait of Hormuz. The attack used a one-way drone but caused no casualties. The US hit missile and drone storage sites and radar stations in response.

Key Facts

  • A cargo ship was attacked by an Iranian drone in the Strait of Hormuz, with no reported casualties.
  • The US planned to evacuate over 11,000 sailors from the region following the attack.
  • President Donald Trump called Iran's attack a "foolish violation" of the ceasefire agreement.
  • US Central Command struck Iranian missile and drone storage facilities and coastal radar sites.
  • Iran and the US had agreed to a ceasefire on June 17, including safe passage for commercial ships.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key shipping route for oil, gas, and other goods like fertilizer.
  • Iran closed the strait after US and Israeli attacks started in February, increasing global oil prices.
  • The US military will continue to help protect commercial ships passing through the strait.
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