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‘They are isolated … they are alone’: Zelenskyy on Russia, Putin’s lies – and fighting back

‘They are isolated … they are alone’: Zelenskyy on Russia, Putin’s lies – and fighting back

Summary

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the war with Russia is slowly turning in Ukraine’s favor, with Russia losing ground and soldiers. Ukraine has faced destruction and attacks, but Russia is becoming more isolated internationally, while peace talks have not progressed.

Key Facts

  • Russia’s military advance in eastern Ukraine has nearly stopped.
  • Russia is losing around 30,000 soldiers a month, many killed or wounded.
  • Ukrainian drones recently attacked Russian targets, including on Russian soil.
  • Russian attacks continue on Ukrainian cities, causing civilian deaths and damage.
  • Putin rejected Zelenskyy’s proposal for a peace meeting and insists on territorial demands.
  • Russia’s political influence in Europe is weakening after election losses in Hungary, Moldova, and Armenia.
  • Zelenskyy thanked the US for its support despite some cuts and challenges during President Trump’s term.
  • Zelenskyy believes Putin’s lies are used to keep Russian society united despite the war setbacks.
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‘We want to see him in Ukraine’: Zelenskyy hopes to invite King Charles on state visit

‘We want to see him in Ukraine’: Zelenskyy hopes to invite King Charles on state visit

Summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wants to invite King Charles to visit Ukraine this year. This would be the highest-ranking royal visit to Kyiv since the Russian invasion began, showing continued support from the UK.

Key Facts

  • Zelenskyy plans to invite King Charles for a state visit to Ukraine, possibly in 2024.
  • If it happens, King Charles would be the most senior royal to visit Kyiv since Russia’s invasion.
  • Zelenskyy has met King Charles several times and says they have a close relationship.
  • Security concerns may affect if the visit can take place this year.
  • Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, and Princess Anne are the only current working royals who have visited Ukraine since 2022.
  • Prince Harry has visited Ukraine three times to support military recovery efforts.
  • Last March, King Charles invited Zelenskyy to his home in Norfolk as a show of UK support.
  • Zelenskyy mentioned that King Charles has continued to support Ukraine but did not share specific details.
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'Pay ransom or lose a kidney': Illegal migrants bound for UK kidnapped in Libya

'Pay ransom or lose a kidney': Illegal migrants bound for UK kidnapped in Libya

Summary

Over 300 migrants from Iraqi Kurdistan heading to the UK were kidnapped in Libya by a militia demanding ransom payments. They faced torture and threats of forced kidney removal, with some hostages released and others still captive.

Key Facts

  • More than 300 migrants from Iraqi Kurdistan were kidnapped in Libya last summer.
  • The kidnappers were a militia controlling part of Libya, a country with weak government control.
  • The militia demanded $5,000 from each migrant’s family and threatened to remove kidneys if payment was not made.
  • At least one hostage died, and many were kept in overcrowded cells of about 180 people.
  • The migrants were being smuggled by Noah Aaron and Kardo Jaf, both from Iraqi Kurdistan; Aaron is in prison in France.
  • Around 110 hostages were flown back to Iraqi Kurdistan in January after ransom payments.
  • Photos showed scars consistent with kidney surgery, but organ removal has not been fully confirmed.
  • Libya’s instability and rival militias allow criminal groups to kidnap migrants and demand ransoms.
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India’s fertility rate falls below replacement level: Why it matters

India’s fertility rate falls below replacement level: Why it matters

Summary

India’s fertility rate has fallen to 1.9 children per woman, which is below the 2.1 level needed to keep the population stable. This decline may lead to a shrinking population in the future, creating challenges like fewer workers and an aging society.

Key Facts

  • India’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) dropped from about 3.3 children per woman in the 2000s to 1.9 in 2024.
  • A TFR of 2.1 is considered the replacement level to keep the population size steady.
  • India became the world’s most populous country in 2023, surpassing China.
  • Reasons for falling fertility include better access to education, contraceptives, and higher costs of raising children.
  • Infant mortality rates in India have declined from 30 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2019 to 24 in 2024.
  • States with lower education and higher infant deaths, like Bihar, have higher fertility rates (2.9).
  • More educated regions such as New Delhi have lower fertility rates (1.2 children per woman).
  • Declining fertility could result in a smaller workforce and increased pressure on social support systems in the future.
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Trump says pilots are fine after US helicopter crashes near Strait of Hormuz

Trump says pilots are fine after US helicopter crashes near Strait of Hormuz

Summary

A U.S. Army Apache helicopter crashed near the Strait of Hormuz, and President Donald Trump said both pilots are safe and not injured. The cause of the crash is unknown, and it occurred amid ongoing tension between Iran and Israel in the region.

Key Facts

  • The helicopter crash happened close to the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway.
  • President Trump confirmed the two pilots are fine and no one was hurt.
  • Iranian state media acknowledged the crash but gave no further details.
  • The area is experiencing tensions due to recent conflict between Iran and Israel.
  • Since late February, the U.S. and Israel have struck Iran, causing economic effects worldwide.
  • Officials have not been able to reach a permanent peace deal after a ceasefire in April.
  • The U.S. military and Defense Department did not immediately comment on the crash.
  • The crash report was expected to be released the day after President Trump’s statement.
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Ebola death toll in DR Congo climbs to 101

Ebola death toll in DR Congo climbs to 101

Summary

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is facing an Ebola outbreak with 101 confirmed deaths and 550 cases reported. Armed conflicts and mistrust in affected areas are making it hard for health workers to control the spread of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola.

Key Facts

  • The DRC has reported 101 deaths and 550 confirmed Ebola cases.
  • The outbreak began officially on May 15 but was undetected for several weeks.
  • The virus is mainly found in Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu provinces, which have active armed groups.
  • Armed groups are blocking access to some health zones, slowing the Ebola response.
  • The Bundibugyo strain causing this outbreak has no approved vaccine or treatment yet.
  • Uganda has 19 cases and 2 deaths, mostly from Congolese crossing the border.
  • The United Arab Emirates and Mauritius have banned travelers from the DRC, Uganda, and South Sudan.
  • Uganda has closed its border with the DRC, but the WHO suggests travel bans are not effective.
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Israel kills 14 in southern Lebanon after trading fire with Iran

Israel kills 14 in southern Lebanon after trading fire with Iran

Summary

Israeli forces killed at least 14 people in air attacks across southern Lebanon after Iran warned of harsh responses if Israel continued its assault. The clashes mark the biggest fight between Israel and Iran since a ceasefire on April 8, with Lebanon caught in the conflict involving Hezbollah and Israel.

Key Facts

  • At least 14 people were killed and dozens wounded in Israeli air strikes in southern Lebanon.
  • Iran warned it would respond with “much more severe and crushing measures” if Israel continued attacks.
  • Clashes intensified after an Israeli attack on Beirut and other southern Lebanese cities.
  • Hezbollah, a Lebanese armed group supported by Iran, said it carried out 16 operations against Israeli forces.
  • Lebanon’s Prime Minister reported nearly 3,500 Israeli air strikes and thousands of demolitions since April 16.
  • Over 3,600 people have died and more than 11,000 have been injured in the conflict since March 2.
  • More than 1 million Lebanese people have been displaced, about 20% of the country’s population.
  • Humanitarian groups say most displaced people lack basic needs and many returning find their homes destroyed.
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Marwan Barghouti’s son calls for his release on stage at Berlin concert

Marwan Barghouti’s son calls for his release on stage at Berlin concert

Summary

Arab Barghouti spoke on stage during a concert in Berlin, asking for the release of his father, Marwan Barghouti. Marwan Barghouti is a Palestinian leader who is currently imprisoned.

Key Facts

  • Arab Barghouti is the son of Marwan Barghouti.
  • The event took place at Berlin’s Citadel Music Festival.
  • Arab Barghouti joined the band Massive Attack on stage.
  • He made a public call for his father’s release.
  • Marwan Barghouti is known as a Palestinian leader.
  • The call for release was made during a music concert.
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WATCH:  US pilots killed in fiery crash in Dominican Republic

WATCH: US pilots killed in fiery crash in Dominican Republic

Summary

Two U.S. pilots died in a plane crash in the Dominican Republic. They were flying to pick up former baseball player Yadier Molina and his family when they reported an emergency and tried to return to the airport.

Key Facts

  • The crash happened in the Dominican Republic.
  • Two U.S. pilots were on board the flight.
  • The pilots were going to pick up Yadier Molina, a former Major League Baseball star, and his family.
  • They reported an emergency during the flight.
  • The pilots attempted to return to the airport but the plane crashed.
  • The crash was fiery and fatal, killing both pilots.
  • The incident occurred on June 8, 2026.
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Israel intensifies strikes in southern Lebanon killing 12 people

Israel intensifies strikes in southern Lebanon killing 12 people

Summary

Israel has increased its military attacks in southern Lebanon, especially around the city of Tyre. These strikes have caused the deaths of 12 people, and Israel has ordered more people to leave certain areas near Tyre.

Key Facts

  • Israel launched more airstrikes in southern Lebanon.
  • The attacks targeted areas around the city of Tyre.
  • At least 12 people have died due to these strikes.
  • Israel issued orders for people in Tyre suburbs to leave their homes.
  • The information comes from reporter Obaida Hitto of Al Jazeera who witnessed the strikes.
  • The strikes are part of an ongoing offensive by Israel.
  • Forced displacement means people are being told to move away from their homes by the military.
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Middle East live: Israeli strikes kill 14 in southern Lebanon

Middle East live: Israeli strikes kill 14 in southern Lebanon

Summary

Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanon killed at least 14 people, according to the Lebanese health ministry. Tensions increased after Iran threatened to attack Israel again if it continued bombing Lebanon, while Hezbollah said it targeted Israeli troops inside Lebanon but did not attack Israel directly.

Key Facts

  • At least 14 people died in Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon.
  • The strikes hit locations including the city of Tyre and Marwanieh.
  • Among the casualties were four Red Cross paramedics and a child.
  • Iran warned Israel that further bombings would lead to new attacks.
  • Hezbollah, supported by Iran, said it targeted Israeli troops inside Lebanon.
  • Israel intercepted an aerial target launched from Yemen, with no injuries reported.
  • Israeli officials said military strikes continued despite Iran's warnings.
  • Recent clashes follow missile attacks by Iran on Israeli targets in retaliation for earlier strikes.
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Trump warns Netanyahu: ‘You’ll be on your own’ if attacks on Iran continue

Trump warns Netanyahu: ‘You’ll be on your own’ if attacks on Iran continue

Summary

President Donald Trump warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that Israel could be left to face Iran alone if it continues its attacks. Both Israel and Iran agreed to pause their recent fighting after significant missile exchanges, but tensions remain high between the two countries.

Key Facts

  • President Trump told Netanyahu to stop attacking Iran and warned he might be on his own if attacks continue.
  • The recent escalation began after Israel bombed Beirut, Lebanon, which led Iran to launch missile attacks on northern Israel.
  • Israel struck Iranian air defense and a petrochemical plant; Iran hit a similar facility in Haifa and two Israeli airbases.
  • No deaths were reported during these attacks, and many missiles were intercepted over the West Bank.
  • A ceasefire had been in place since April 8, but flare-ups have continued in the region.
  • Netanyahu said Israel has the right to defend itself and will respond strongly if Iran attacks again.
  • Iran blames the United States for escalating the fighting, accusing it of violating the ceasefire.
  • Diplomatic talks between Iran and the United States are ongoing, with Pakistan acting as a go-between.
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6/8: The Takeout with Major Garrett

6/8: The Takeout with Major Garrett

Summary

Iran and Israel announced they have stopped their military actions following a recent increase in fighting. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump attended an NBA Finals basketball game at Madison Square Garden.

Key Facts

  • Iran and Israel had a recent flare-up involving military operations.
  • Both countries say they have now stopped these military actions.
  • The pause follows a weekend of heightened tensions.
  • President Donald Trump went to watch an NBA Finals game.
  • The game took place at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
  • CBS News covered these events on their 6/8 program called The Takeout with Major Garrett.
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US lists China’s BYD, Alibaba, Baidu as ‘Chinese military companies’

US lists China’s BYD, Alibaba, Baidu as ‘Chinese military companies’

Summary

The United States government added Alibaba, BYD, and Baidu to a list of Chinese companies that support China’s military. This blacklist means these companies cannot get US defense contracts and is part of ongoing tensions between the US and China.

Key Facts

  • Alibaba, BYD, and Baidu were labeled as "Chinese military companies" by the US Pentagon.
  • The Pentagon’s list now includes 188 Chinese companies, up from 134 the previous year.
  • Companies on this list are barred from US defense contracts.
  • The designation is based on whether companies are owned or controlled by China’s military or involved in military-civil fusion, which mixes civilian and military research.
  • The companies must have some operations in the US to be included.
  • China’s embassy called the US action discriminatory and unfair to Chinese businesses.
  • This update comes shortly after President Trump’s meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping aimed at improving relations.
  • Experts doubt the effectiveness of the broad blacklist, saying many US firms still work with these companies despite the restrictions.
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The criminal cartels cashing in on the World Cup – podcast

The criminal cartels cashing in on the World Cup – podcast

Summary

The World Cup is starting in Mexico, with some games in Mexico City and Guadalajara. Guadalajara is known for its strong football history but also faces security challenges due to criminal gangs in the region. Authorities are increasing security because of worries about crime and possible interventions from the US government.

Key Facts

  • The World Cup is opening in Mexico City and then moving to Guadalajara.
  • Guadalajara has a famous football history, hosting important matches in 1970 and 1986.
  • The region around Guadalajara, Jalisco, is home to a major criminal cartel.
  • There will be a large security presence during the World Cup to keep fans safe.
  • US President Donald Trump is concerned about drug trafficking and violence linked to Mexico and Venezuela.
  • There is a fear that the US government might consider military action in Mexico.
  • Local leaders, including Guadalajara’s president Claudia Sheinbaum, are working to prevent any security problems during the event.
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Iran and Israel cease attacks after weekend hostilities

Iran and Israel cease attacks after weekend hostilities

Summary

Iran and Israel stopped attacking each other after a weekend of fighting in the Middle East. The two countries had exchanged direct military strikes, increasing tensions in the region.

Key Facts

  • Iran and Israel engaged in direct attacks over the weekend.
  • Both sides ceased their military strikes after the hostilities.
  • The fighting caused increased tension in the Middle East.
  • News outlets including CBS News reported on the events.
  • The exchange involved direct strikes, meaning they targeted each other specifically.
  • The situation remains sensitive but calm after the ceasefire.
  • This event is part of ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel.
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UN questions legality of Israeli forced evacuation orders in Lebanon

UN questions legality of Israeli forced evacuation orders in Lebanon

Summary

A United Nations spokesman said that forced evacuation orders in southern and eastern Lebanon are very difficult to carry out safely. The spokesman also questioned if Israel is following international humanitarian law with these orders.

Key Facts

  • The UN spokesman spoke about evacuation orders in southern and eastern Lebanon.
  • These orders require people to leave their homes forcibly.
  • The spokesman said it is almost impossible to leave safely under these orders.
  • The UN is concerned about whether Israel is following international humanitarian law.
  • International humanitarian law includes rules to protect civilians during conflicts.
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French star Patrick Bruel held by police investigating new sexual assault allegations

French star Patrick Bruel held by police investigating new sexual assault allegations

Summary

French singer and actor Patrick Bruel was taken into police custody as officials investigate new sexual assault and rape complaints against him. He is being questioned about allegations from 13 women and denies all accusations.

Key Facts

  • Patrick Bruel is a 67-year-old French singer and actor with a long career in music and film.
  • He is under police investigation for sexual assault and rape allegations reported by multiple women.
  • Prosecutors are examining claims involving 13 victims from incidents dating back to 1997, 2000, and 2001.
  • Two new rape complaints were filed against Bruel on May 27 and June 3, 2024.
  • Bruel was held in custody for up to 48 hours for questioning by police.
  • His lawyers stated he denies all allegations and will cooperate fully with the investigators.
  • Bruel has canceled most of his planned tour dates, which were set to begin in Paris.
  • Other French celebrities, like Gérard Depardieu, have recently faced similar sexual assault allegations.
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Russian strikes kill four, wound 10 in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region

Russian strikes kill four, wound 10 in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region

Summary

Russian missile strikes hit the city of Chuguiv in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region, killing four people and injuring 10 others. The attacks caused fires and damaged homes and vehicles amid ongoing fighting between Ukraine and Russia.

Key Facts

  • Four people died, including a 22-year-old woman, in the Russian strikes in Chuguiv.
  • Ten people were wounded in Kharkiv city during the attacks.
  • The strikes damaged buildings, blew out windows, and destroyed at least 18 vehicles.
  • Fighting in eastern Ukraine has intensified recently, with both sides launching attacks.
  • Ukraine has used drones to strike Russian military and energy targets.
  • Since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, over 15,850 civilians have died in Ukrainian-controlled areas.
  • More than 2,800 civilians have died in areas controlled by Russia.
  • The United Nations reports that over 44,800 civilians have been injured in the conflict zones.
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ICC prosecutor suspended pending vote on sexual misconduct claims

ICC prosecutor suspended pending vote on sexual misconduct claims

Summary

Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), was suspended from his duties after an investigation into sexual misconduct claims. The ICC’s member states will hold a vote to decide whether to remove him from his position.

Key Facts

  • Karim Khan is the ICC’s chief prosecutor and was suspended following sexual misconduct allegations.
  • The ICC’s oversight body made the suspension decision based on a UN investigation and expert advice.
  • The details of the investigation and decision are confidential.
  • Khan denies any wrongdoing and says the decision is unfair and unsupported by evidence.
  • The UN found some basis for the allegations, but a separate judge panel said the evidence was not conclusive.
  • Khan has been on leave since May and was already not leading any ICC cases during this time.
  • Only the 125 member states of the ICC can remove Khan, requiring at least 63 votes in a secret ballot.
  • Khan gained attention for seeking arrest warrants against Israeli and Hamas leaders related to conflicts in Gaza and southern Israel.
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