Account

The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

Is Starmer's tougher stance on Trump enough to shore up support from his MPs?

Is Starmer's tougher stance on Trump enough to shore up support from his MPs?

Summary

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing pressure from MPs within his Labour Party to take a tougher stance against President Donald Trump. Starmer recently used a parliamentary speech to state he "will not yield" to Trump, marking a shift in how he's handling relations with the U.S. President. This change comes amidst tense discussions about international relationships and political strategies.

Key Facts

  • Keir Starmer is the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
  • There is internal pressure from Labour MPs for Starmer to toughen his stance on President Trump.
  • Starmer publicly declared he "will not yield" to Trump during a parliamentary session.
  • President Trump criticized Starmer on his social media platform, Truth Social.
  • The strategy of maintaining a warm relationship with Trump has been questioned by Labour MPs.
  • Mark Carney, Canadian PM, also commented on international relations, urging "middle powers" to work together.
  • Starmer previously attempted to use the Royal Family to improve relations with Trump.
  • Some Labour MPs want more aggressive actions, such as tariffs, against Trump.

Source Verification

Trump rules out using military force to take Greenland

Trump rules out using military force to take Greenland

Summary

President Donald Trump spoke at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, about his desire for the U.S. to acquire Greenland from Denmark, making clear he does not intend to use military force. He criticized NATO and Europe while promoting the U.S. economy and its use of oil over renewable energy. The mention of potentially imposing tariffs on allies if Greenland is not handed over has heightened tensions between the U.S. and Europe.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump wants to negotiate with Denmark to acquire Greenland for the U.S.
  • During his speech, Trump clarified that the U.S. would not use military force to take Greenland.
  • He criticized NATO and expressed doubt about Europe's current direction.
  • Trump claimed the U.S. economy is experiencing significant growth and downplayed inflation concerns.
  • At Davos, Trump emphasized the benefits of oil over renewable energy sources.
  • The possibility of U.S. tariffs if Greenland is not acquired raised tensions with European allies.
  • Crowds eagerly awaited Trump's speech at Davos, with high interest even among skeptics.

Source Verification

I will not yield to Trump's pressure on Greenland, says PM

I will not yield to Trump's pressure on Greenland, says PM

Summary

The UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, stated he will not give in to President Trump's pressure regarding Greenland. President Trump criticized the UK's deal with Mauritius involving the Chagos Islands and linked it to his interest in acquiring Greenland from Denmark. Starmer reaffirmed that Greenland's future should be decided by Greenland and Denmark alone.

Key Facts

  • UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said he will not be pressured by President Trump over Greenland.
  • President Trump criticized the UK's deal with Mauritius about the Chagos Islands.
  • Trump called the UK’s Chagos Islands deal "an act of great stupidity."
  • Trump mentioned potential tariffs on European countries if his demand for control of Greenland is opposed.
  • Greenland is a semi-autonomous region of Denmark.
  • The UK signed a deal for a military base on the Chagos Islands, currently debated in UK Parliament.
  • Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch supports the PM's stand on Greenland but agrees with Trump's view on the Chagos deal.

Source Verification

Donald Trump Says 'Sometimes You Need a Dictator' at Davos CEO Reception

Donald Trump Says 'Sometimes You Need a Dictator' at Davos CEO Reception

Summary

President Donald Trump said during a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, that "sometimes you need a dictator." He made the comment while reflecting on earlier speeches at the event.

Key Facts

  • President Trump spoke at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
  • He made a comment saying, "sometimes you need a dictator."
  • His remarks were made at a CEO Reception and Dinner during the event.
  • Trump mentioned that his speech earlier in the day received good reviews.
  • The context or specific reason for his statement was not detailed in the article.
  • This was a breaking news update with more information expected to follow.

Source Verification

Greenland’s strategic position in seven maps: Why Trump wants the island

Greenland’s strategic position in seven maps: Why Trump wants the island

Summary

President Donald Trump is focusing on acquiring Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, due to its importance for national and global security. He has proposed tariffs on goods from certain European countries unless they support his plan for Greenland. The tension raises concerns among European leaders about a possible trade war and impacts on NATO.

Key Facts

  • President Trump is in Davos, Switzerland, for the World Economic Forum where Greenland is a key topic.
  • Greenland is an autonomous territory of Denmark, located mostly in the Arctic Circle.
  • President Trump claims Greenland is crucial for national and global security.
  • Trump has warned of tariffs on goods from the UK, Denmark, and other European countries starting February 1.
  • European leaders in Davos express concerns about a trade war and potential impacts on NATO.
  • Greenland is the world's largest island, mostly covered by ice, with a population primarily living on the coast.
  • The island has strategic importance due to its location and ice-covered resources.

Source Verification

EU parliament refers Mercosur free trade deal to bloc’s top court

EU parliament refers Mercosur free trade deal to bloc’s top court

Summary

The European Parliament voted to send the European Union's trade deal with South America's Mercosur countries to the EU's top court to review if it aligns with EU policies. This decision adds uncertainty to the agreement that would remove many trade barriers between the regions. The Court of Justice of the European Union will decide on the deal's legality, which may take up to two years.

Key Facts

  • The EU signed a significant trade agreement with Mercosur after 25 years of talks.
  • The European Parliament voted 334 to 324 to refer the deal to the EU's top court.
  • The deal would remove tariffs on over 90% of trade between the EU and Mercosur countries.
  • Germany and Spain support the deal to mitigate effects from US tariffs and reduce dependence on China.
  • France, Poland, and farmer groups oppose the deal, fearing increased competition from cheap imports.
  • The deal's legality concerns relate to its impact on EU environmental and consumer health policies.
  • The EU Court of Justice could take about two years to make a decision.
  • Protests from farmers took place before the European Parliament's vote.

Source Verification

Waiting Out the Storm: What India Can Teach the World About Trump | Opinion

Waiting Out the Storm: What India Can Teach the World About Trump | Opinion

Summary

The article discusses how both Denmark and India are currently dealing with changes in their relationships with the United States under President Trump. Denmark is reacting to Trump's proposed acquisition of Greenland, while India is coping with issues like tariffs and immigration rule changes. Both countries are using patience and careful management in dealing with these challenges.

Key Facts

  • Denmark and India express similar patience in dealing with U.S. policy changes under President Trump.
  • President Trump has shown interest in acquiring Greenland, which concerns Denmark.
  • U.S.-India relations have become strained after Trump imposed high tariffs on Indian goods and restricted visas.
  • India’s Prime Minister Modi and Trump were once seen as having a strong relationship, which has since weakened.
  • India rejected President Trump's claim of brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan.
  • India's current strategy treats the U.S. as a critical but less reliable partner.
  • The tensions have led to a decreased sense of trust and alliance between the U.S. and India.

Source Verification

Syrian army takes control of camp holding thousands linked to ISIL

Syrian army takes control of camp holding thousands linked to ISIL

Summary

The Syrian government has taken control of the Al-Hol camp, which houses thousands linked to ISIL, after Kurdish forces withdrew. This change happened during a ceasefire between the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The camp's transfer comes after recent fighting between the army and the SDF.

Key Facts

  • Syrian government forces entered the Al-Hol camp on Wednesday after Kurdish forces withdrew.
  • The camp, located in Hasakeh province, holds around 24,000 people mostly linked to ISIL.
  • The control transfer happened during a ceasefire between the Syrian government and SDF.
  • Fighting between the Syrian army and SDF lasted two weeks before a truce was declared.
  • The SDF played a significant role in defeating ISIL with the help of a U.S.-led coalition.
  • President Ahmed al-Sharaa of Syria now plans to integrate Kurdish fighters into the state.
  • Al-Hol is the largest ISIL-linked camp, originally set up by Kurdish forces.
  • The Syrian Interior Ministry reported 120 ISIL members escaped from Shaddadi prison in Hasakeh province.

Source Verification

Iran says 3,117 killed in recent protests, issuing lower death toll than human rights activists

Iran says 3,117 killed in recent protests, issuing lower death toll than human rights activists

Summary

Iranian state TV reported that 3,117 people were killed in recent protests in Iran, while a U.S.-based group estimated the number at 4,560. Iran's foreign minister warned of a strong response to any attacks from the United States. Military movements in the region include a U.S. aircraft carrier approaching the Middle East.

Key Facts

  • Iranian state TV reported that 3,117 people died in recent protests.
  • The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reported a higher death toll of 4,560.
  • Iran's foreign minister threatened a strong response if Iran is attacked again.
  • The foreign minister’s comments came as a U.S. aircraft carrier approached the Middle East.
  • The recent Iranian protests began on December 28.
  • Videos reportedly show security forces using live fire on protesters.
  • U.S. fighter jets and other military equipment are moving to the Middle East.
  • The USS Abraham Lincoln, along with destroyers, is nearing the Middle East.

Source Verification

Can Europe break with Trump? A tale of energy, defence, economic dependence

Can Europe break with Trump? A tale of energy, defence, economic dependence

Summary

President Donald Trump has expressed a strong interest in acquiring Greenland and is planning discussions with European leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos about this plan. Tensions have risen between the U.S. and European countries, with Trump threatening tariffs on nations opposing the Greenland acquisition. The European Union is considering responses, including possible retaliatory tariffs.

Key Facts

  • President Trump is interested in acquiring Greenland, a self-governing part of Denmark.
  • Trump plans to meet European leaders in Davos to discuss Greenland.
  • Tensions increased after Trump threatened tariffs on European countries opposing the plan.
  • The European Union is considering retaliatory tariffs against the U.S.
  • Greenland is strategically important due to its location and natural resources.
  • Trump communicated with European leaders through social media about Greenland.
  • Images created using AI depicted Trump with a U.S. flag in Greenland as a sign of his interest.
  • Greenland is important for U.S. military operations due to its location.

Source Verification

Fire death couple 'unintended victims of  drug row'

Fire death couple 'unintended victims of drug row'

Summary

An elderly couple, Sheila Jackson and Eric Greener, died in a house fire alleged to be linked to a drugs-related dispute. The fire, intended to target Sheila Jackson's son, resulted in the couple's deaths. Three people face charges, with one admitting to manslaughter but denying intent to kill.

Key Facts

  • Sheila Jackson and Eric Greener died in a house fire in July last year.
  • The fire was allegedly set due to a drugs dispute involving Sheila Jackson's son, George Jackson.
  • Three individuals, Kevin Weetman, Kylie Maynard, and Lee Owens, are charged, with Owens admitting manslaughter.
  • It is claimed that Paul Smith, now deceased, was involved in starting the fire.
  • George Jackson had previously declined an offer to work as a drug dealer for Weetman.
  • Owens intended only to damage the building, not to cause deaths.
  • The trial is taking place at Liverpool Crown Court and is expected to last six weeks.

Source Verification

Fear grips Nigerian village after mass church kidnapping

Fear grips Nigerian village after mass church kidnapping

Summary

Armed attackers kidnapped over 170 people from three churches in northern Nigeria. Families are worried about their missing relatives.

Key Facts

  • Over 170 people were kidnapped in northern Nigeria.
  • The kidnappings took place in three different churches.
  • Families are concerned for the safety of their relatives.
  • Some people managed to escape the attackers.
  • The news was reported by Al Jazeera’s Ahmed Idris.

Source Verification

U.S. military transfers first 150 Islamic State group detainees from Syria to Iraq

U.S. military transfers first 150 Islamic State group detainees from Syria to Iraq

Summary

The U.S. military has started moving prisoners from the Islamic State group from northeastern Syria to Iraq. This decision follows the Syrian government taking over a camp where these detainees were held, ensuring their detention in secure locations. The situation involves Syrian government forces, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), and ongoing efforts to manage and relocate detainees.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. military began the transfer of Islamic State detainees from Syria to Iraq.
  • This transfer follows a shift in control of the al-Hol camp from the SDF to the Syrian government after a new ceasefire agreement.
  • As of now, 150 detainees have been moved, with plans to relocate up to 7,000.
  • The al-Hol camp housed 24,000 people, mostly women and children linked to the IS group, with a secured section for loyal IS supporters.
  • Conflict continues in the region with reports of clashes and some detainees escaping during the transition.
  • A new ceasefire was announced between the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led SDF.
  • Increased security presence is noted at the al-Hol camp.
  • The Kurdish-led forces still control more than a dozen prisons with IS detainees.

Source Verification

Donald Trump Insults European Leaders in Davos Address: Read Speech in Full

Donald Trump Insults European Leaders in Davos Address: Read Speech in Full

Summary

President Donald Trump criticized European leaders during his speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. He spoke against their economic and immigration policies, suggesting that these have led to negative changes in Europe. Trump also highlighted what he described as positive economic developments in the United States under his leadership.

Key Facts

  • President Trump gave a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
  • He criticized European leaders for their approaches to economic and immigration issues.
  • Trump claimed European countries have become unrecognizable, implying this is not a positive change.
  • He discussed the U.S. economy improving under his policies, mentioning low inflation and high growth.
  • Trump argued against government spending, mass migration, and foreign imports, calling them harmful.
  • The speech received varied reactions, with some public figures criticizing it and others supporting it.
  • Trump claimed his policies have led to significant economic turnaround in the U.S.

Source Verification

Video: Syria SDF ‘outlived usefulness to US’ explains Al Jazeera reporter

Video: Syria SDF ‘outlived usefulness to US’ explains Al Jazeera reporter

Summary

The Syrian army took control of parts of the country previously held by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). A four-day ceasefire is in effect between these groups. The change in the U.S. position influenced these events.

Key Facts

  • The Syrian army now controls areas once held by the SDF.
  • There is a four-day ceasefire between Syrian forces and the SDF.
  • Al Jazeera's Bernard Smith noted the U.S. policy shift as significant.
  • The Syrian Democratic Forces are led by Kurdish groups.
  • The focus is on how the U.S.'s stance has affected the situation.

Source Verification

‘Rupture in the world order’: Speeches by Carney, world leaders at Davos

‘Rupture in the world order’: Speeches by Carney, world leaders at Davos

Summary

World leaders met at the World Economic Forum in Davos to discuss issues related to the global order and responses to U.S. President Donald Trump's recent actions. President Trump has threatened to take over Greenland, leading to tensions with European countries and talks of new tariffs. Leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and French President Emmanuel Macron, emphasized the need for cooperation to manage global challenges.

Key Facts

  • World leaders gathered at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
  • U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to take over Greenland, causing tensions with European allies.
  • The U.S. military carried out an operation to abduct Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
  • President Trump threatened new tariffs on Europe if they oppose his Greenland plans.
  • Canadian PM Mark Carney spoke about the need for middle powers to unite against aggressive superpowers.
  • European Union officials and French President Macron criticized President Trump's tariff threats and approach to international relations.
  • Discussions focused on the changing global order and the challenge of maintaining international cooperation.

Source Verification

Over 5 Million People Under Extreme Cold Watches Before Winter Storm

Over 5 Million People Under Extreme Cold Watches Before Winter Storm

Summary

Millions of people in the Northern Plains, Great Lakes, and Upper Midwest in the United States are facing extreme cold warnings and watches as temperatures drop significantly due to an Arctic cold front. The cold weather is expected to create dangerous conditions, especially with a winter storm predicted to impact the Southern Plains and Mid-Atlantic from Thursday night onwards. The National Weather Service has advised people to be cautious and prepared for hazardous weather, including potential power outages and travel disruptions.

Key Facts

  • Over 5 million people are under extreme cold warnings or watches.
  • Temperatures may feel as low as 54 degrees below zero Fahrenheit with wind chill.
  • Extreme cold warnings are active for North Dakota and Minnesota.
  • Widespread extreme cold watches cover several states, including Montana, South Dakota, and Michigan.
  • The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued alerts for potentially life-threatening temperatures.
  • An Arctic cold front is causing these cold conditions and may lead to a major winter storm.
  • People are advised to have emergency supplies and prepare for possible power outages and travel issues.

Source Verification

US, Russia envoys meet in Davos as Ukraine reconstruction plan postponed

US, Russia envoys meet in Davos as Ukraine reconstruction plan postponed

Summary

U.S. and Russian representatives met at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. The planned signing of an $800 billion Ukraine reconstruction deal has been postponed due to tensions over President Trump’s interest in Greenland. Russian attacks in Ukraine continue, affecting civilians and infrastructure.

Key Facts

  • U.S. representative Steve Witkoff and President Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner met with Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev in Davos.
  • The meeting lasted more than two hours, and talks were described as “very positive.”
  • A planned $800 billion Ukraine reconstruction deal was postponed due to tensions related to President Trump’s interest in Greenland.
  • Greenland is an autonomous region within Denmark, and Trump's interest has caused friction with NATO allies.
  • Russian drone and missile attacks continue in Ukraine, with recent strikes causing damage and casualties.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy decided not to attend Davos, preferring to oversee relief efforts in Ukraine.
  • NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized the need to maintain focus on aiding Ukraine amidst these tensions.

Source Verification

Free holiday swimming for thousands of children

Free holiday swimming for thousands of children

Summary

Thousands of children in Wiltshire, England, who receive free school meals can swim for free during the school holidays. Wiltshire Council will offer one free swim per week at council-run pools for up to 13 weeks. The scheme was successful last year and aims to continue providing healthy activities for young people.

Key Facts

  • Wiltshire is offering free swimming to children eligible for free school meals.
  • The program is for primary and secondary school pupils.
  • Each child can swim for free once a week during school holidays for up to 13 weeks.
  • Last year's pilot saw over 5,000 visits with good participation rates.
  • Around 13,000 children in the county are eligible for the program.
  • The council incurs minimal extra cost by allowing a few more participants per session.
  • Pools at all council-run leisure centers, including Five Rivers Health and Wellbeing Centre, are included.
  • The scheme will be reviewed after each holiday period to assess its success.

Source Verification

Greenlanders Mock 'American Culture' In Viral Video

Greenlanders Mock 'American Culture' In Viral Video

Summary

Greenlanders have taken to social media to mock American culture in response to talks about the U.S. potentially acquiring Greenland. President Donald Trump has expressed interest in Greenland for security reasons, causing tensions between Greenland, Denmark, and the U.S. A video by Greenlanders joking about American culture went viral, reflecting widespread disapproval of the acquisition idea.

Key Facts

  • President Trump wants the U.S. to acquire Greenland for security purposes.
  • Greenland is part of Denmark and has some autonomy.
  • Only 6% of Greenlanders support joining the U.S., according to a survey.
  • A TikTok video mocking American culture has been viewed over 8 million times.
  • Viral content includes criticism of the U.S. and President Trump’s proposal.
  • Comments from both Greenlanders and Americans mock the acquisition idea.
  • Protests and online posts have shown Greenlanders’ discontent with the proposal.
  • President Trump stated he would not use force to acquire Greenland but believes the U.S. should have it.

Source Verification