Ukraine launched a large drone and missile attack on Novorossiysk, a major Russian Black Sea port, hitting grain export terminals and a naval base. The attack caused deaths and injuries, disrupted water supplies, and led Russia to reroute grain shipments to other ports and routes.
Key Facts
Ukraine used drones and missiles to strike Novorossiysk, a key Russian port on the Black Sea.
The attack damaged grain export terminals and Russia’s main naval base in the area.
Three people died, including one child, and 24 others were injured in the attack.
The city experienced water supply cuts after damage to pipelines.
Russia’s agriculture ministry plans to redirect grain shipments to other ports and land routes.
Explosions and air defenses firing were reported throughout the night of the attack.
Russia responded with strikes on Ukrainian cities, killing at least 11 civilians.
Grain exports from Russia, a top worldwide wheat supplier, may drop significantly due to the conflict.
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Low water levels on the Danube River near Prahovo, Serbia, have revealed the sunken remains of many Nazi-era warships. These ships were sunk by German forces in 1944 while retreating from Soviet soldiers.
Key Facts
The Danube River near Prahovo, Serbia, is currently at record-low water levels.
This drop in water is caused by a severe heatwave and historic drought in Europe.
Dozens of warships from the Nazi era have become visible because of the low water.
These vessels were sunk by German forces during their retreat in 1944.
The retreat was from the advancing Soviet army in World War II.
The exposed wrecks provide a rare view of wartime ship remains beneath the river.
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The movie "Don’t Say Good Luck" is about a high school girl named Sophie who wins the lead role in the musical "Waitress" while facing her mother’s cancer returning. The film stars Sunny Sandler and focuses on the excitement and challenges of being a theater kid, mixing family struggles with the spirit of putting on a show.
Key Facts
"Don’t Say Good Luck" stars Sunny Sandler, daughter of Adam Sandler.
The story centers on Sophie Birenbaum, a high school sophomore who gets the lead role in the school production of "Waitress."
Sophie’s mother is battling a cancer recurrence, which affects Sophie’s experience.
The film is directed by Julia Hart.
The script was written by Julia Hart, Laura Hankin, and Jordan Horowitz.
Themes include family relationships, theater life, and coping with loss.
Supporting cast includes Steve Buscemi, Melanie Lynskey, and Bebe Neuwirth.
The movie was released on Netflix and appeals to musical theater fans and young audiences.
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Millions of people in parts of the United States and Europe will see a solar eclipse today. Health experts warn that looking directly at the sun during the eclipse without proper eye protection can cause serious and permanent eye damage.
Key Facts
NASA says looking directly at the sun during any partial eclipse without special glasses is unsafe.
Using binoculars, telescopes, or cameras without correct solar filters can quickly cause severe eye injury.
The sun remains very bright even when mostly covered by the moon during a partial eclipse.
Damage to the eye’s retina from looking at the sun can happen without any pain and may show symptoms hours later.
Symptoms of eye damage include blurred vision, blind spots, and color problems; damage can be permanent.
The UK Health Security Agency also warns that damage can occur within seconds and people might not know it is happening.
The only total solar eclipse in 2026 will be visible along a narrow path through northern Russia, Greenland, Iceland, northern Spain, and part of Portugal.
Most of Europe, Northwest Africa, Canada, and parts of the northern United States will see a partial eclipse and need to wear certified eclipse glasses.
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Andy Burnham chaired an emergency government meeting called the Cobra committee to address the extreme heat and wildfires in the UK. Firefighters are actively working to control large fires in Hampshire and Scotland as temperatures continue to rise.
Key Facts
The government held an emergency Cobra meeting focused on extreme heat and wildfires.
Firefighters are tackling a wildfire in the New Forest, Hampshire, which started on Sunday.
Another wildfire is still burning in the Cairngorms in Scotland, where it began on July 15.
Temperatures are forecasted to rise again, increasing the risk of more fires.
Green Party leader Zack Polanski argues this situation shows that no new oil and gas extraction should happen in the North Sea.
The meeting is part of the government’s effort to manage natural disasters caused by weather conditions.
The discussion also includes the political implications for local leaders like Andy Burnham.
The news was covered by BBC’s Newscast, a daily political analysis podcast.
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A strong earthquake hit Colombia, destroying homes and killing over 250 people. World Central Kitchen, along with local organizations, is helping by providing food to affected families.
Key Facts
The earthquake caused serious damage and many deaths in Colombia.
More than 250 people lost their lives due to the earthquake.
Many homes were destroyed, leaving families without shelter.
World Central Kitchen is working to feed families affected by the disaster.
The organization is partnering with local groups to deliver aid.
Aid efforts include providing meals and support to survivors.
The disaster relief work is ongoing as communities recover.
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A total solar eclipse will happen in 2026, coinciding with the peak of the Perseid meteor shower. Dr. Geza Gyuk, an astronomer, says this event is rare and gives people a special feeling of connection to the universe.
Key Facts
The next total solar eclipse occurs in 2026.
This eclipse will happen at the same time as the peak of the Perseid meteor shower.
The Perseid meteor shower is a yearly event when many shooting stars can be seen.
Dr. Geza Gyuk is the director of astronomy at the Adler Planetarium.
He describes the eclipse as a unique and special natural event.
People watching the eclipse may feel a sense of wonder and connection to space.
Total solar eclipses happen when the moon completely blocks the sun for a short time.
These events draw attention from astronomers and the public around the world.
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Ann Widdecombe, a British politician and public figure, died at age 78 with serious head injuries. About 100 people attended her funeral at Buckfast Abbey in Devon, where she regularly worshipped. A man has been charged with her murder, and a public memorial will be held later this year.
Key Facts
Ann Widdecombe died on 8 July at her home in Haytor, Devon, found with serious head injuries.
Around 100 family, friends, and colleagues gathered for her funeral at Buckfast Abbey, a Catholic church she often visited.
The funeral was a requiem mass, a Catholic service to pray for the dead.
Police and sniffer dogs were present at the abbey ahead of the funeral service.
Widdecombe was known for her strong Roman Catholic faith and political career as a Conservative MP and later with the Brexit Party and Reform UK.
A 28-year-old man called Joshua Kerry has been charged with her murder.
A trial date is set for June 2027.
Donations in her memory will go to the Leprosy Mission and a Christian project in India.
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Iran has named Mohsen Rezaei, who helped start the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), as the new head of its Supreme National Security Council. This change comes as President Trump moves toward using economic pressure against Iran.
Key Facts
Mohsen Rezaei is the new secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.
Rezaei helped establish Iran’s IRGC, a key military and political force.
Iran recently experienced changes in its national security leadership.
These developments follow mixed diplomatic messages from Iran.
President Trump is focusing on economic measures to influence Iran’s actions.
The Supreme National Security Council plays a major role in Iran’s defense and foreign policy.
The IRGC is influential in Iran’s internal and external politics.
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Carly Simon released a new album called "Comes in Waves," her first with original songs in almost 20 years. The album explores themes like love, loss, family, and personal struggles, including her recent Parkinson’s disease diagnosis.
Key Facts
"Comes in Waves" is Carly Simon’s first album of new songs in nearly 20 years.
Simon revealed she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease while making this album.
The music reflects on her past relationships, including her marriage to James Taylor.
The album includes a mix of emotions from regret to hope and celebrates family moments.
It features a remastered political song “Share the End” and a tribute to her late father.
Songs like “Four in the Morning” were written by a late friend, Judy Belushi.
Critics say Simon’s voice and songwriting remain strong, though not all songs reach her previous best.
The album is most recommended for longtime Carly Simon fans and lovers of emotional pop music.
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A strong climate event called El Niño is expected to raise ocean temperatures and change coastal conditions, possibly leading to more cases of a harmful bacteria called Vibrio vulnificus. This bacteria can cause serious infections and has already led to deaths in some U.S. states. Experts warn that warmer waters and changing environmental conditions make it easier for the bacteria to grow.
Key Facts
El Niño is a climate pattern that warms sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean and changes weather worldwide.
A "super El Niño," one of the strongest on record, is likely to happen in late 2026 and last through early 2027.
Vibrio vulnificus bacteria thrive in warm, slightly salty coastal waters.
This bacteria can cause severe infections, sometimes called "flesh-eating" infections, and has caused deaths in states like Louisiana and Florida this year.
Warmer seawater and changes in rainfall and storms during El Niño can increase habitat for the bacteria, raising the risk of infection.
The Gulf Coast states (Florida, Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Alabama) are most vulnerable due to their warm, brackish waters.
Infections are appearing more in Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern states as those waters warm.
Human behavior, like swimming more in warm water, can increase exposure to the bacteria.
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Over 60,000 Canadians have signed a petition to expel the US ambassador in Ottawa, Pete Hoekstra, for interfering in Canadian politics and normalizing President Donald Trump's comments about annexing Canada as the 51st US state. The petition will be presented in Canada’s House of Commons amid tense trade talks between the two countries over new US tariffs on Canadian goods.
Key Facts
More than 60,000 Canadians signed an online petition calling for US Ambassador Pete Hoekstra to be expelled.
The petition accuses Hoekstra of interfering in Canadian politics and supporting President Trump’s threats about Canada becoming the 51st US state.
The US embassy acknowledged the petition but did not comment further.
Canada and the US are in critical trade negotiations to avoid new American tariffs set to start soon.
The petition also objects to US officials meeting with Albertans who want the province to separate from Canada.
Hoekstra is a Republican and ally of President Trump and has defended Trump’s trade policies.
Hoekstra has been involved in controversies, including inviting a leader of Canada’s Freedom Convoy to a US celebration and criticizing Canadian political attitudes towards the US.
The petition will be officially presented in the Canadian Parliament by Green Party leader Elizabeth May.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that NATO’s new weapons in the Pacific pose a threat to Russia, as tensions rise in the region. Russia has increased protections on its Pacific submarines and conducted military drills in response to NATO’s growing presence and joint exercises with U.S. forces.
Key Facts
Putin said NATO’s deployment of weapons in the Pacific increases the risk of conflict.
The U.S. has deployed F-35 fighter jets to northern Japan and tested long-range missiles in the Philippines.
Other NATO countries, like Italy, have sent military assets to the Pacific region for rotations.
Thirty nations, including NATO members, took part in joint military exercises with the U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Russia placed anti-drone nets over its submarines at the Rybachiy base, which hosts nuclear submarines.
The anti-drone nets protect against drone attacks similar to those Ukraine launched against Russian Black Sea bases.
Ukrainian forces have used drones and missiles to strike Russian naval bases far from the active front lines.
Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, and Ukraine aims to reclaim the territory.
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Singer Becky G talked about her friendship with fellow singer Karol G during an interview. She said they have a strong bond and support each other as they grow in their careers.
Key Facts
Becky G and Karol G are both popular singers.
They are currently on tour together.
Becky G described their friendship as beautiful and meaningful.
She said their friendship has grown stronger over the years.
Both singers aim to be the best versions of themselves.
Becky G shared these thoughts in an interview with Gayle King on CBS News.
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A near-total solar eclipse visible across western Europe prompted a rush to buy special eclipse glasses in London and other places. Many shops quickly sold out or increased prices as people queued early to buy the glasses needed to safely view the eclipse.
Key Facts
Tens of millions in western Europe will see a near-total solar eclipse, the first in over 25 years.
Special eclipse glasses filter harmful light to protect eyes during viewing.
Glasses cost about £5 before the event, but some sellers raised prices to £10-£20.
People queued early and traveled from various cities to buy glasses in London.
Some shops sold out, including the Royal Greenwich Observatory and Exmoor National Park.
Looking at the eclipse without protection can cause permanent eye damage.
Eye damage can happen because during an eclipse pupils widen and it feels comfortable to look at the sun, unlike normal conditions.
Sellers and shop owners asked customers to behave respectfully amid high demand and stress.
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The Eurovision Song Contest has changed its rules so that countries involved in armed conflict cannot host the contest if they win. The rule also applies if a country's security or stability is threatened. Other changes include raising the minimum age for participants to 18 and clarifying rules about pre-recorded backing tracks.
Key Facts
If a country at war wins Eurovision, it cannot host the contest next year.
Countries facing security or stability risks may be disqualified from hosting.
The change aims partly at Israel, which has faced criticism and broadcaster boycotts related to military actions.
Ukraine is also affected by the rule due to its ongoing conflict with Russia.
Eurovision organizers can conduct independent security checks before deciding where the contest will be held.
If needed, another country can be chosen to host instead, without being forced to do so.
The minimum age for Eurovision participants is now 18 years old.
Backing tracks may not support or enhance the lead singer's voice with pre-recorded melodies.
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Graduates in England leave university with an average debt of about £47,500, which has slightly decreased recently. University tuition fees in England and Wales have been rising and will continue to increase each year in line with inflation from 2026 onwards.
Key Facts
The average student debt for graduates in England is around £47,730, down from £53,000 the year before.
Tuition fees in England and Wales increased to £9,535 per year in 2025 and will rise to £9,790 in 2026.
From 2026, tuition fees in England will increase annually based on inflation, measured by the Retail Price Index minus mortgage interest (RPIx).
In Northern Ireland, fees are £4,855 for local students and £9,535 for others, rising in 2026-27 to £4,985 and £9,790 respectively.
Most Scottish students pay no tuition fees, but other UK students pay £9,535, rising to £9,790 in 2026-27.
Student loans cover tuition and living costs, with living loans based on family income.
Loan repayment begins only when income reaches a certain level, and rules changed in 2023 making repayments longer and potentially more expensive for some.
Plan 5 loans, introduced in England in 2023, have lower interest and contributed to the recent decrease in average student debt.
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Europe is preparing for a total solar eclipse, which will be the first one visible there in 27 years. Millions of people are expected to watch the eclipse along a path stretching from Iceland to Spain, while scientists will use planes and observatories to study the event.
Key Facts
A total solar eclipse will occur over parts of Europe.
This is the first total solar eclipse visible in Europe in 27 years.
The path where the eclipse will be fully visible goes from Iceland to Spain.
Millions of people are expected to watch the eclipse.
Scientists plan to observe the eclipse using aircraft and ground observatories.
A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon completely covers the Sun as seen from Earth.
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Colombia declared three days of national mourning after a 7.4 magnitude earthquake killed over 200 people and caused widespread damage. Rescue teams are working urgently to find survivors amid ongoing aftershocks, while the government and international aid groups provide support.
Key Facts
A strong earthquake hit western Colombia, the worst in 100 years, causing major damage in cities like Cali, Pereira, and Manizales.
More than 200 people have died, about 2,595 were injured, and up to 4,000 may still be missing according to some sources.
The government declared three days of mourning and lowered flags to half-staff to honor the victims.
Rescue efforts continue with cranes, dogs, and volunteers digging through rubble to find survivors.
Parts of Colombia’s health system are overwhelmed, with hospitals damaged and patients treated outside.
President Abelardo de la Espriella, who took office just days before, declared a state of emergency and promised help for affected families.
The United States, European Union, Mexico, and El Salvador have sent emergency aid, rescue teams, and supplies.
Some remote and poor areas near the quake’s epicenter are hard to reach due to rough terrain and local violence.
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Russia’s economy has lasted longer than expected despite Western sanctions linked to the Ukraine war. However, its growth is slowing, the budget deficit is growing, and attacks from Ukraine are affecting the economy, even though Russia still has large financial reserves and benefits from higher energy prices due to the conflict involving Iran.
Key Facts
Russia’s economy has resisted sanctions but is now showing signs of strain after four years of war with Ukraine.
Economic growth in Russia is expected to slow to its lowest level since 2022.
The Russian government’s budget deficit is increasing.
Ukrainian military strikes are increasingly impacting Russian economic targets.
Russia holds over $300 billion in financial reserves that it can access.
The conflict involving Iran has raised global energy prices, which benefits Russia’s revenues.
The U.S. Senate has approved tariffs of up to 100% on buyers of Russian energy to limit Russia’s income.
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