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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

Woman who was groomed as teen 'insulted' after compensation claims denied

Woman who was groomed as teen 'insulted' after compensation claims denied

Summary

Fiona Goddard, a victim of child sexual abuse in Bradford, feels insulted after her compensation claims were denied by the West Yorkshire Police and Bradford Council. Goddard, who was abused by groups of men when she was a teenager, is speaking out to bring attention to the issue, despite the legal authorities acknowledging mistakes publicly but denying liability privately.

Key Facts

  • Fiona Goddard was abused as a child in a children's home in Bradford in the late 2000s.
  • She filed legal claims against West Yorkshire Police and Bradford Council, but they have denied liability.
  • Nine men were convicted and jailed in 2019 for offenses against Goddard.
  • A review revealed that authorities did not act on warnings and concerns about her situation.
  • Goddard's complaints included claims of negligence and conspiracy against her.
  • She publicly shared her story to support other victims seeking compensation.
  • Her lawyer noted that authorities often do not admit responsibility in such cases.

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Finger-prick blood test could be early warning for children with type 1 diabetes

Finger-prick blood test could be early warning for children with type 1 diabetes

Summary

Researchers in the UK suggest that all children might be screened for type 1 diabetes using a simple finger-prick blood test. This test could identify the disease early and allow treatments to help control blood sugar levels sooner. The ELSA study has already checked thousands of children and aims to prevent serious complications from diabetes.

Key Facts

  • A finger-prick blood test can screen for type 1 diabetes in children.
  • 17,000 children aged 3 to 13 participated in the ELSA study in the UK.
  • Early screening can help avoid diabetic ketoacidosis, a dangerous complication.
  • Some children showed early signs of diabetes but did not need insulin yet.
  • A drug called teplizumab is being tested to delay the onset of diabetes.
  • The test checks for specific proteins (autoantibodies) that can indicate diabetes.
  • A family history and certain environmental factors may increase diabetes risk.
  • The study will expand to include children aged 2 to 17 in the next phase.

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Why doing a mix of exercise could be the key to longer life

Why doing a mix of exercise could be the key to longer life

Summary

A study tracked the exercise habits of 110,000 people in the U.S. over 30 years. It found that people who did different types of physical activities were 19% less likely to die during that time than those who focused on one exercise. The study suggests doing a variety of exercises can improve both physical and mental health.

Key Facts

  • The study tracked 110,000 men and women in the U.S. for 30 years.
  • People who did different types of exercise were 19% less likely to die during the study than those who did just one kind.
  • Mixing activities like yoga, weight lifting, and jogging can offer different benefits.
  • Exercise benefits physical health and reduces risks for illnesses like heart disease and some cancers.
  • The study suggests combining activities with complementary benefits, like aerobic and resistance training.
  • NHS recommends adults do muscle-strengthening activities twice a week and aerobic activities for 150 minutes a week.
  • Participants of the study included over 70,000 nurses and 40,000 health professionals.
  • They reported on their exercise habits every two years, including activities like walking, tennis, and gardening.

Source Verification

US seizes a seventh Venezuela-linked oil tanker

US seizes a seventh Venezuela-linked oil tanker

Summary

The United States military seized a seventh oil tanker linked to Venezuela as part of its efforts to control the country's oil resources. The action is part of U.S. sanctions against Venezuela and aims to regulate the sale of Venezuelan oil. President Trump stated that the U.S. will manage the sale of this oil and its proceeds.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. military took control of a vessel called the Motor Vessel Sagitta, which is linked to Venezuela.
  • This seizure is part of ongoing U.S. sanctions against Venezuela.
  • The U.S. Southern Command said the operation happened without any incidents.
  • The U.S. began seizing Venezuelan-linked tankers on December 10.
  • Tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela increased after a U.S. operation targeting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
  • President Trump claims the U.S. will control Venezuelan oil sales and profits.
  • Legal experts debate the legality of using military force to enforce these sanctions.
  • Interim Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez stated her country earned $300 million from recent oil sales.

Source Verification

The Papers: Europe condemns Trump 'new colonialism' and 'Becks bites back'

The Papers: Europe condemns Trump 'new colonialism' and 'Becks bites back'

Summary

European leaders, especially French President Emmanuel Macron, criticized President Donald Trump at the World Economic Forum in Davos for attempting to acquire Greenland, describing his actions as new colonialism. Trump stood firm on his plans and said he was open to talks about Greenland. The discussion also included Trump's criticism of UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer over the Chagos Islands deal.

Key Facts

  • President Trump expressed a desire to acquire Greenland, causing concerns among European leaders.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron warned against "new imperialism or new colonialism."
  • The discussion occurred at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
  • Trump stated there was "no going back" on his Greenland intentions but was open to discussions.
  • Trump criticized UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for the Chagos Islands military base issue.
  • UK military units may be involved in a defense presence in Greenland.
  • Trump suggested Nato allies should work together to address the situation.

Source Verification

Sophie Turner on why being at your lowest is liberating

Sophie Turner on why being at your lowest is liberating

Summary

Sophie Turner stars in a new Amazon Prime Video series called "Steal," where she plays a dissatisfied office worker involved in a heist. The show explores issues like feeling trapped in a dull job and the pressures of economic hardship. Sophie Turner recently went through a divorce and a custody battle with Joe Jonas.

Key Facts

  • Sophie Turner stars in the drama series "Steal" on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Her character, Zara, works for a pension investment company targeted by hackers.
  • Turner recently divorced singer Joe Jonas and resolved a custody dispute over their two children.
  • The series features themes of feeling stuck in a mundane job and dealing with economic pressures.
  • Sophie Turner also plays Lara Croft in an upcoming "Tomb Raider" series.
  • The filming of "Steal" took place in a set designed to look like a London office, simulating the experience of office work.
  • Actor Archie Madekwe also stars in "Steal" and comments on the relatable nature of feeling trapped in financial stress.
  • "Steal" is available on Prime Video starting January 21.

Source Verification

US opens priority visa appointment system for World Cup ticket holders

US opens priority visa appointment system for World Cup ticket holders

Summary

People who have tickets for the 2026 World Cup can use a new system to get priority visa appointments for the United States. The "Fifa Pass" system, announced by President Trump, helps fans from countries that might have difficulty getting visas in time. However, having a Fifa Pass does not guarantee that a visa will be approved.

Key Facts

  • The Fifa Pass system started on Tuesday for 2026 World Cup ticket holders.
  • It aims to help fans from some countries get visa appointments faster.
  • The system does not guarantee visa approval; applicants must still meet security checks.
  • People from countries in the US visa waiver program, like those in much of Europe, usually don't need a Fifa Pass because they can travel without a visa.
  • The US has paused processing immigrant visas from 75 countries but this does not affect tourist visas.
  • Countries like Brazil and Iran are affected by these visa suspensions.
  • There are exceptions for athletes and their support staff, allowing them to apply for visas despite restrictions.

Source Verification

Locked exits, panic and desperate calls for help: Survivors tell of mall fire horror

Locked exits, panic and desperate calls for help: Survivors tell of mall fire horror

Summary

A fire broke out at the Gul Plaza shopping center in Karachi, Pakistan, leading to at least 27 deaths and over 70 people missing. The fire spread quickly due to crowded conditions and locked exits, making escape difficult. Rescue efforts continue but are hampered by the risk of the building collapsing.

Key Facts

  • The fire occurred at Gul Plaza, a shopping center in Karachi, Pakistan.
  • At least 27 people have died, and more than 70 are missing.
  • The building housed around 1,200 shops across multiple floors.
  • Locked exits and crowded conditions worsened the situation for those trying to escape.
  • Witnesses reported the fire spreading rapidly, taking only minutes to engulf the area.
  • Rescue operations are slowed due to the damaged and unstable structure.
  • The exact cause of the fire is currently unknown.
  • Forensic examinations may be necessary to identify victims due to severe damage.

Source Verification

Film about Palestinian girl's desperate plea was a 'way to not feel helpless', says director

Film about Palestinian girl's desperate plea was a 'way to not feel helpless', says director

Summary

A film by director Kaouther Ben Hania focuses on the story of Hind Rajab, a six-year-old Palestinian girl who made an emergency call before being killed likely by Israeli fire in Gaza City. The film, which combines documentary and drama elements, aims to share her story and raise empathy for her and her family, who died while trying to escape the violence.

Key Facts

  • The film is about Hind Rajab, a Palestinian girl who called for help during a siege in Gaza City.
  • Hind and her family died after their car was hit by suspected Israeli fire.
  • The ambulance that tried to rescue her was also shelled, killing both the family and the ambulance crew.
  • Reports from research agency Forensic Architecture and others suggested Israeli tank fire was responsible.
  • The UN used Hind's case to accuse Israel of war crimes, which Israel denies.
  • The film mixes real audio from Hind's calls with dramatized scenes.
  • The director hopes the film will provoke empathy and raise awareness.
  • The film was released in UK cinemas and was shortlisted for an Oscar.

Source Verification

Air India crash plane had record of safety defects, campaigners claim

Air India crash plane had record of safety defects, campaigners claim

Summary

A plane crash involving an Air India Boeing 787 in June 2022 killed 260 people. U.S. safety campaigners claim the aircraft had a history of technical problems, including electrical faults and a fire. The official investigation is ongoing, but preliminary reports point to potential fuel control switch issues during takeoff.

Key Facts

  • The crash of the Air India Boeing 787 occurred on June 12, 2022.
  • The Foundation for Aviation Safety claims the plane had previous technical problems.
  • Alleged issues included electronics faults and a significant fire in a power panel in January 2022.
  • A report was sent to the U.S. Senate, highlighting these concerns.
  • The official investigation is led by India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau with U.S. participation.
  • A preliminary report noted engine fuel control switches being moved incorrectly, leading to engine failure.
  • Investigation reports and transcripts remain under review.

Source Verification

Driving test cheating soars as candidates turn to Bluetooth headsets and impersonators

Driving test cheating soars as candidates turn to Bluetooth headsets and impersonators

Summary

Cheating during driving tests in England, Scotland, and Wales increased by nearly 50% last year, with over 1,100 cases involving Bluetooth devices. The shortage of available driving tests and improved detection methods are believed to have contributed to this rise in cheating incidents.

Key Facts

  • Cheating cases during driving tests rose by nearly 50% last year in England, Scotland, and Wales.
  • More than 1,100 cheating attempts involved Bluetooth headsets.
  • Nearly 100 people were prosecuted for cheating or impersonating test candidates.
  • A total of 2,844 cheating attempts were reported in the year up to September 2025.
  • The DVSA has taken steps to prevent fraud, such as checking candidate's ID and ensuring their pockets are empty.
  • The shortage of driving test slots is believed to contribute to the increase in cheating cases.
  • Impersonators can face various punishments, including driving bans and prison sentences.

Source Verification

Man who admitted killing Japan's ex-PM Shinzo Abe set to be sentenced

Man who admitted killing Japan's ex-PM Shinzo Abe set to be sentenced

Summary

Tetsuya Yamagami, who admitted to killing former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2022, is set to be sentenced. Yamagami's defense claims he acted due to grievances tied to his family's financial struggles caused by the Unification Church, while prosecutors seek a life sentence for the shooting. Abe's killing has sparked wider investigations into the church and its connections to political figures.

Key Facts

  • Tetsuya Yamagami confessed to killing former PM Shinzo Abe during a trial in 2022.
  • Yamagami's sentencing is scheduled for Wednesday, with prosecutors demanding life imprisonment.
  • Yamagami's defense argues he was driven by "religious abuse" due to financial issues linked to his mother's involvement with the Unification Church.
  • The assassination occurred using a homemade gun during a public campaign event in 2022.
  • Abe's murder led to scrutiny of the Unification Church and its influence on politicians, resulting in ministerial resignations.
  • The Tokyo court revoked the Unification Church's status as a religious corporation in March 2023, citing exploitative practices.
  • Shinzo Abe was the longest-serving Prime Minister in Japan's history and his death shocked the nation and the world.

Source Verification

Alleged scam mastermind arrested after being exposed by BBC

Alleged scam mastermind arrested after being exposed by BBC

Summary

Cambodian authorities have arrested Kuong Li, a businessman featured in a BBC investigation about alleged online scam operations. He faces charges including illegal recruitment for exploitation and money laundering. The investigation focused on claims of human trafficking and fraud within the Huang Le compound, which he owns.

Key Facts

  • Kuong Li is a 50-year-old businessman from Cambodia.
  • He was charged with illegal recruitment, aggravated fraud, organized crime, and money laundering.
  • These charges relate to activities since 2019 in Cambodia and other locations.
  • The BBC Eye program linked him to human trafficking and fraud at the Huang Le compound.
  • A victim named 'Didi' claimed he was trafficked into the compound and forced to work long hours targeting victims in Europe and the U.S.
  • Another victim, Mi Lijun, reportedly died from organ failure after being found ill near the compound.
  • Cambodian authorities initially dismissed allegations as unfounded, despite identifying Li as the compound's owner.
  • Kuong Li received a high-ranking royal honorific in June 2023.

Source Verification

Air Force One Turns Around Mid-Flight Due to 'Minor Electrical Issue'

Air Force One Turns Around Mid-Flight Due to 'Minor Electrical Issue'

Summary

President Donald Trump's plane, Air Force One, had to turn back to Joint Base Andrews after taking off due to a minor electrical problem. The plane was on its way to Switzerland for the World Economic Forum. A new aircraft will be used for the rest of the journey.

Key Facts

  • President Trump was traveling to Switzerland for the World Economic Forum.
  • The plane he was on, Air Force One, experienced a minor electrical problem.
  • The decision to turn back was made as a safety precaution.
  • Air Force One returned to Joint Base Andrews.
  • President Trump and his team will use a different plane to continue their trip.
  • This is a developing story, with more updates to follow.

Source Verification

Mum demands answers over son found dead with stab wounds in a Home Office flat

Mum demands answers over son found dead with stab wounds in a Home Office flat

Summary

A man named Mikhail Ackrim was found dead in a flat used for Home Office accommodation in Glasgow, Scotland. His body showed signs of drug use and injuries, but the cause of his death remains unknown despite a year-long investigation. His mother, Sheena Millar, is asking for answers as she deals with the uncertainty surrounding her son's death.

Key Facts

  • Mikhail Ackrim was found dead with stab wounds and bruises in a Glasgow flat over a year ago.
  • The flat was operated by Mears Group on behalf of the Home Office to house asylum seekers.
  • Mikhail had drugs and alcohol in his system, including Valium and a newer form of street Valium.
  • Pathologists noted stab wounds deep enough to fracture his leg.
  • Mikhail’s death remains unexplained after a year-long investigation by the police.
  • Initially, police arrested three men, including James Carter, in connection with an assault and robbery in the flat.
  • Mikhail’s mother, Sheena Millar, is still seeking clarity on how her son died.
  • The events leading up to Mikhail's death involved a late night out and a gathering at the flat with others.

Source Verification

UK households to get £15bn for solar and green tech to lower energy bills

UK households to get £15bn for solar and green tech to lower energy bills

Summary

The UK government has announced a £15 billion plan to help households install solar panels and other green technologies to reduce energy bills. The Warm Homes Plan aims to triple the number of homes with solar installations and lift one million people out of fuel poverty. The plan includes grants, loans, and new rights for renters, although some critics worry about the costs and reliance on foreign-made technology.

Key Facts

  • The UK government will provide £15 billion over five years to support solar panels and green technologies for homes.
  • The plan aims to increase solar installations and reduce fuel poverty for one million people.
  • Households can receive low-interest loans and grants to help with the costs of green technology.
  • An extension of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and extra funding for low-income households are included.
  • The plan could create up to 180,000 new jobs in the clean heating sector.
  • Critics argue that the scheme may depend too much on foreign-manufactured components, potentially impacting British industry.
  • The plan does not fully address home insulation, due to past issues with related schemes.
  • The government says more discussion with the finance sector is needed for new funding distribution.

Source Verification

Driver killed and several injured after train derails near Barcelona, local media report

Driver killed and several injured after train derails near Barcelona, local media report

Summary

A train derailed near Barcelona, Spain, resulting in the death of the driver and injuries to at least 14 passengers. The derailment happened when the train hit a wall that had fallen onto the tracks due to bad weather.

Key Facts

  • A train derailed near Barcelona, Spain.
  • The train driver died in the accident.
  • At least 14 passengers suffered injuries.
  • The train hit a retaining wall that fell onto the tracks.
  • Severe weather, including heavy storms, affected the region.
  • Emergency services, including 11 ambulances and 35 fire crews, responded to the scene.
  • Another major train crash happened days earlier in Andalusia, Spain, with many fatalities.

Source Verification

Beckham vs Peltz Beckham: Could Brooklyn torpedo the family brand?

Beckham vs Peltz Beckham: Could Brooklyn torpedo the family brand?

Summary

Brooklyn Peltz Beckham has made public statements criticizing his parents, Sir David and Lady Beckham, saying they put their brand above family. The comments could harm the Beckham family image, which they have maintained as a global celebrity power couple.

Key Facts

  • Brooklyn Peltz Beckham is the son of Sir David and Lady Victoria Beckham.
  • He accused his parents of prioritizing their public brand image over family.
  • The Beckhams have a significant global presence and business empire.
  • David Beckham was knighted by the King last year.
  • Brooklyn claims his family values public appearances and promotions too highly.
  • David and Victoria have not publicly responded to Brooklyn's comments.
  • The Beckham brand is estimated to be worth about £500 million.

Source Verification

Syrian government, SDF agree on a four-day ceasefire

Syrian government, SDF agree on a four-day ceasefire

Summary

The Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have agreed to a four-day ceasefire that began on Tuesday evening. Despite the agreed ceasefire, there have been reports of continued attacks, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the ceasefire. The agreement also involves the integration of SDF forces into the Syrian government.

Key Facts

  • The ceasefire between the Syrian government and SDF began at 8pm (17:00 GMT) on Tuesday.
  • The ceasefire deal involves integrating Kurdish forces into the Syrian state's framework.
  • The SDF confirmed its acceptance of the ceasefire, stating it would only act defensively.
  • Reports surfaced that government-allied groups attacked the village of Tal Baroud despite the ceasefire.
  • SDF representatives stated that Zarkan faced artillery attacks and an attack on al-Aqtan Prison occurred.
  • The Syrian government made rapid territorial gains, taking control of regions previously held by the SDF.
  • Syria's Ministry of Interior noted the army's control over the al-Hol camp, housing ISIL fighters' families.
  • The U.S. envoy to Syria, Tom Barrack, recognized the Syrian government as the U.S.'s main partner against ISIL.

Source Verification

What’s behind Trump’s push to control Greenland?

What’s behind Trump’s push to control Greenland?

Summary

President Donald Trump is considering taking control of Greenland as a way to block influence from China and Russia. Greenland's 57,000 residents, mainly Inuit, do not support his plan, seeing it as disrespectful and controlling.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump wants to take control of Greenland.
  • He sees it as a way to keep China and Russia away from the region.
  • Greenland is a self-governing part of Denmark.
  • The island has strategic importance because climate change is changing sea routes and revealing valuable minerals.
  • Greenlanders, mostly Inuit, oppose Trump's plans, calling them insulting and colonial.
  • Greenland has a population of 57,000 people.

Source Verification