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Russia launches 'horrific' drone, missile strikes on Ukraine, killing 13: Officials

Russia launches 'horrific' drone, missile strikes on Ukraine, killing 13: Officials

Summary

Russia launched a large attack using missiles and drones on Ukraine, mainly targeting Kyiv and other regions. At least 13 people died and over 100 were injured, with significant damage to buildings including medical facilities. Ukraine’s leaders called for more help from other countries to defend against these attacks.

Key Facts

  • Russia launched 73 missiles and 656 drones against Ukraine.
  • Ukrainian forces intercepted 40 missiles and 602 drones during the attack.
  • At least 13 people were killed, including four in Kyiv and nine in Dnipro (one was a child).
  • The attacks caused serious damage, including the collapse of a nine-story building in Kyiv’s Podilskyi district.
  • Four medical facilities in Kyiv were damaged during the strike.
  • Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy asked for support from the United States and other partners, especially missile defense systems like the Patriot system.
  • Ukrainian officials called the attack a sign that Russia will keep striking unless better defenses are provided.
  • Russia’s Defense Ministry described the attack as a large strike using various advanced weapons.
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Musket balls and a burnt hull: evidence of real pirates of the Caribbean found in Bahamas

Musket balls and a burnt hull: evidence of real pirates of the Caribbean found in Bahamas

Summary

An international team of archaeologists has found six shipwrecks in Nassau harbour, Bahamas, linked to real pirates from the late 1600s to early 1700s. These discoveries include weapons and a burned wooden ship hull that may have belonged to famous pirates like Henry Avery.

Key Facts

  • Nassau in the Bahamas was a pirate hideout from the 1690s to the 1720s.
  • The team found six shipwrecks, three dating from the "golden age of piracy."
  • One wreck is a burned wooden ship hull, possibly from pirate Henry Avery’s flagship, the Fancy.
  • Archaeologists discovered swivel guns, an iron cannon, 25 lead musket balls, and a sword sharpening stone.
  • Pirates destroyed ships by burning them to hide their crimes.
  • This is the first official dive in a closed zone of Nassau harbour to find pirate shipwrecks.
  • The seabed had been dredged before, but the team still found well-preserved artifacts.
  • The expedition faced risks like strong tides and sharks while exploring the shipwrecks.
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China and Russia Will Have Their Say in Who Wins a US-Iran Endurance Match

China and Russia Will Have Their Say in Who Wins a US-Iran Endurance Match

Summary

China and Russia are playing important roles in the ongoing conflict and negotiations between the United States and Iran. Both countries maintain strong economic and diplomatic ties with Iran, which helps Tehran withstand pressure from the U.S. even as talks face setbacks.

Key Facts

  • China and Russia support Iran economically and diplomatically but are not formal military allies.
  • Iran uses a strategy called the "mosaic" doctrine to survive attacks and launch missile and drone strikes in the region.
  • President Trump aims to avoid a major war with Iran while managing political pressures at home, including upcoming elections.
  • U.S. efforts to block Iranian ports have worsened Iran’s economic problems.
  • Iran’s demands, such as stopping attacks in Lebanon, delay U.S.-Iran negotiations.
  • Tehran is strengthening ties with China and Russia to prepare for possible continued conflict.
  • There is a possibility that Iran could outlast the U.S. in a prolonged showdown.
  • The conflict affects global energy prices due to its impact on the Strait of Hormuz shipping route.
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Mozambique says 5 citizens killed in ‘xenophobic attacks’ in South Africa

Mozambique says 5 citizens killed in ‘xenophobic attacks’ in South Africa

Summary

At least five Mozambican citizens were killed in xenophobic attacks in South Africa during protests against undocumented immigrants. Hundreds of Mozambicans were affected, with many seeking safety or returning home.

Key Facts

  • Five Mozambican nationals died directly because of xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
  • Two additional Mozambicans died in a road accident while traveling back to Mozambique.
  • About 800 Mozambicans were caught up in violence in Mossel Bay, South Africa.
  • Around 300 Mozambicans returned to Mozambique after the attacks.
  • More than 500 Mozambicans were sheltered in a safe place in Western Cape province, with repatriation underway.
  • South African police are investigating two deaths in Mossel Bay but have not confirmed if they relate to the protests.
  • The region has seen recent anti-migrant protests similar to those in Johannesburg, Durban, and Eastern Cape.
  • South Africa has had repeated xenophobic violence since 2008, with serious flare-ups in 2015 and 2021.
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China opens its markets to African exports. Who benefits?

China opens its markets to African exports. Who benefits?

Summary

China has removed tariffs on many African imports for two years to increase trade. This move aims to give China access to Africa’s natural resources while helping African countries grow their industries and create jobs.

Key Facts

  • China lifted tariffs on many African goods for the next two years.
  • China wants to secure resources from Africa.
  • African countries aim to develop industries and add more value to their products.
  • China has been funding African infrastructure like roads, railways, and ports for over ten years.
  • China is Africa’s biggest trading partner.
  • China exports more goods to Africa than it imports from Africa.
  • Many African countries still mainly export raw materials and import finished products.
  • The trade growth happens as China increases its presence in Africa and the U.S. reduces its involvement there.
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Satellite Image Shows Possible Chinese Structure on Disputed Reef

Satellite Image Shows Possible Chinese Structure on Disputed Reef

Summary

Satellite images show a shiny object near the entrance of Scarborough Shoal's lagoon in the South China Sea, raising concerns about China possibly building a new structure. The area is disputed and controlled by China since 2012, and Philippine officials are still investigating what the object is.

Key Facts

  • The object appeared in satellite photos taken between May 26 and 28.
  • It is about 10 meters (32 feet) wide but could be floating or fixed.
  • Scarborough Shoal is also called Bajo de Masinloc by the Philippines and Huangyan Island by China.
  • China has controlled the shoal since a 2012 standoff with the Philippines.
  • China has a coast guard presence, stops Philippine patrols, and blocks Philippine fishers there.
  • If the object is a permanent structure, it might go against an agreement from 2002 that asks countries not to change the status of the disputed areas.
  • Philippine Defense Secretary said there is information about new Chinese structures but no confirmation yet.
  • The Philippines’ National Security Council is leading the investigation.
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Senegal president names government, boycotted by ally-turned-rival

Senegal president names government, boycotted by ally-turned-rival

Summary

Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye named a new government including some members of Ousmane Sonko’s party, Pastef. However, Sonko, who was recently fired as prime minister and is now parliament speaker, said his party will not join the new government due to disagreements.

Key Facts

  • President Faye fired Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and dissolved the previous government less than two weeks ago.
  • Sonko was elected speaker of Senegal’s parliament by his allies in a vote the opposition boycotted.
  • Sonko’s party, Pastef, controls 130 of the 165 seats in Senegal’s parliament.
  • President Faye named Ahmadou Al Aminou Mohamed Lo, a senior economist, as the new prime minister.
  • The new government includes some Pastef members but lacks several senior figures from Sonko’s group.
  • Sonko said Pastef will not participate in or be represented in the new government.
  • The split follows disagreements between Faye and Sonko over leadership and the future role of Pastef.
  • Sonko was barred from running for president due to a defamation conviction but remains a popular leader among young Senegalese.
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EU agrees deal for deporting migrants to third-country 'return hubs'

EU agrees deal for deporting migrants to third-country 'return hubs'

Summary

The European Union agreed on a plan to allow countries to send migrants who have been ordered to leave the EU to special "return hubs" in other countries. The plan is not final yet and still needs approval from EU governments and the European Parliament. Some human rights groups worry that the plan could lead to harsh treatment of migrants.

Key Facts

  • The EU deal lets countries deport migrants to centers outside the EU called "return hubs."
  • These hubs can be in countries where the migrants have no personal ties.
  • The deal is part of stricter migration policies despite fewer migrants arriving irregularly last year.
  • The legislation needs formal approval by EU governments and the European Parliament.
  • Human rights groups say the plan could lead to increased detention and deportation abuses.
  • The rules would extend how long migrants can be detained and allow home searches and biometric data collection.
  • EU officials say only 20% of people ordered to leave the EU currently actually depart.
  • The EU has not named which countries might host these return hubs.
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Mozambique says five citizens killed in ‘xenophobic attacks’ in South Africa

Mozambique says five citizens killed in ‘xenophobic attacks’ in South Africa

Summary

Five people from Mozambique died in attacks in South Africa linked to protests against illegal immigration. Many Mozambican nationals were affected by violence in Mossel Bay, and efforts are underway to safely send them back to Mozambique.

Key Facts

  • Five Mozambican citizens were killed in xenophobic attacks in Mossel Bay, South Africa.
  • Two additional Mozambicans died in a road accident while returning home.
  • Around 800 Mozambicans were caught up in the violence; 300 left South Africa on their own.
  • About 500 people are in a safe location in South Africa's Western Cape province awaiting return.
  • South African police are investigating the deaths of two men in Mossel Bay but did not confirm their citizenship.
  • The area’s mayor expressed concern over deaths, burned homes, and displaced families due to the attacks.
  • South Africa has a history of xenophobic violence, often targeting undocumented African migrants blamed for crime and job competition.
  • Several African countries have urged their citizens in South Africa to be careful, and some have already arranged evacuations.
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Middle East crisis live: Conflict continues in Lebanon despite Trump hailing Israeli-Hezbollah de-escalation

Middle East crisis live: Conflict continues in Lebanon despite Trump hailing Israeli-Hezbollah de-escalation

Summary

Fighting continues in Lebanon despite an agreement to reduce violence between Israel and Hezbollah. President Donald Trump praised the deal, but clashes and military actions are still happening in the region.

Key Facts

  • President Trump announced a de-escalation agreement where Hezbollah pledged not to attack Israel, and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu agreed to pull back troops preparing to attack Beirut.
  • Lebanon’s embassy said the agreement does not end the conflict but calls for Israel to stop strikes on Beirut and Hezbollah to halt attacks on Israel.
  • Despite the agreement, Israeli forces intercepted projectiles from Lebanon, and ground operations continue in southern Lebanon near the Zahrani River.
  • Hezbollah called for a full ceasefire before Israeli troops withdraw but did not confirm stopping strikes on Israel.
  • Lebanon plans to discuss expanding the ceasefire in talks with Israel in Washington.
  • Iran’s Revolutionary Guards threatened to open new battle fronts and keep the strategic Strait of Hormuz closed if the offensive continues.
  • Iran’s foreign minister warned that a violation in one area violates the overall ceasefire with the US.
  • US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will testify before Congress about the war and budget while the conflict impacts oil prices and the global economy.
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Body found after river search for missing boy, 11

Body found after river search for missing boy, 11

Summary

Police found a body after searching the River Don in Mexborough for 11-year-old Mackenzie Swift, who went missing over the weekend. The boy was last seen entering the river on Saturday evening, and his family has been informed and offered support.

Key Facts

  • Mackenzie Swift, 11 years old, went into the River Don near Ferry Boat Lane in Mexborough around 8 p.m. on Saturday.
  • Police and volunteer teams, including underwater divers and mountain rescuers, searched for Mackenzie.
  • The search ended shortly before 11 p.m. on Monday when a body was found.
  • Formal identification of the body has not yet taken place, but the family has been notified.
  • Mackenzie is the 16th person in the UK to die after getting into difficulty in open water during recent hot weather.
  • South Yorkshire Police expressed sympathy to the family and the local community.
  • The incident has affected Mackenzie’s school and the wider community.
  • Police thanked the local community for their support during the search.
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At least nine people killed, dozens wounded in Russian attacks on Ukraine

At least nine people killed, dozens wounded in Russian attacks on Ukraine

Summary

Russian forces launched missile and drone attacks across Ukraine, killing at least nine people and injuring dozens. Ukrainian officials reported strikes in Kyiv, Dnipro, Kharkiv, and other regions, targeting military and infrastructure sites.

Key Facts

  • At least nine people died and dozens were wounded due to Russian missile and drone strikes in Ukraine.
  • Russia launched 656 drones and 73 missiles overnight, according to Ukraine’s air force.
  • Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported four deaths and 58 injuries in the capital during the attack.
  • Five people were killed and 25 wounded in Dnipro; Kharkiv saw 10 wounded, including a child.
  • Russia said the attacks targeted Ukraine’s military-industrial complex and key infrastructure.
  • A Ukrainian drone strike killed one person in Russia’s Kursk region near the border.
  • A drone attack caused a fire at an oil refinery in Krasnodar, Russia.
  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had warned of a possible large-scale Russian attack days before the strikes.
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Iran war day 95: Trump pushes Lebanon truce after Tehran vows to end talks

Iran war day 95: Trump pushes Lebanon truce after Tehran vows to end talks

Summary

President Donald Trump said that Israel and Hezbollah agreed to stop fighting to reduce violence after Israeli attacks on Beirut. Iran warned it might stop talks with the US if Israel keeps attacking Lebanon. Despite the ceasefire talk, military actions and political tensions continue in the region.

Key Facts

  • President Trump announced an agreement between Israel and Hezbollah to halt hostilities.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu ordered attacks on Beirut’s southern suburbs but said attacks would continue if Hezbollah kept attacking Israeli cities.
  • Iran’s chief negotiator warned that Tehran could stop negotiations with the US if Israel’s military campaign in Lebanon continues.
  • Iran’s foreign minister claimed the ceasefire agreement between Iran and the US covers Lebanon and the wider region.
  • US Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized Trump’s handling of the war, worrying about risks to US troops and economic effects.
  • Congresswoman Ilhan Omar called for an end to US military aid to Israel, accusing Israel of committing atrocities.
  • Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir opposed stopping attacks on Beirut and urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to resist US pressure.
  • Israel carried out airstrikes in southern Lebanon, injuring civilians, while Hezbollah reported multiple attacks against Israeli forces in response.
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Somerset detectorist strikes gold with ‘spectacular’ Roman ring find

Somerset detectorist strikes gold with ‘spectacular’ Roman ring find

Summary

A metal detectorist named Kevin Minto found a rare, large gold Roman ring engraved with the goddess Victoria in a field in Somerset. The ring and nearly 300 Roman coins were bought by the South West Heritage Trust for £78,000 to keep them in the local area.

Key Facts

  • Kevin Minto is a lorry driver, former soldier, and metal detectorist from Wiltshire.
  • The ring dates back to around AD 297 and weighs 48 grams.
  • The ring features a finely engraved gemstone showing the goddess Victoria in a two-horse chariot.
  • The find included 297 Roman coins scattered over a wide area near Ilminster, Somerset.
  • The South West Heritage Trust acquired the ring and coins to preserve local history.
  • Minto shared his part of the reward with a friend and gave half to the landowner.
  • The discovery was made during a military veterans’ detecting rally, causing some dispute over ownership.
  • The ring may have belonged to an important Roman figure like a governor or merchant and could have had ceremonial use.
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‘I wasn’t expecting that!’: Joel Meyerowitz and the art of surprise – in pictures

‘I wasn’t expecting that!’: Joel Meyerowitz and the art of surprise – in pictures

Summary

Joel Meyerowitz, a photographic artist, is holding his fourth solo exhibition in London, showing 25 photos from his career spanning over six decades. The exhibition features images capturing unexpected moments in everyday life, mostly from New York City between the 1960s and 2019.

Key Facts

  • The exhibition is called "Joel Meyerowitz: Select Works, 1962-2019."
  • It is held at Huxley-Parlour in London from June 5 to July 11.
  • Meyerowitz’s photos focus on surprising, fleeting moments during daily life.
  • Many images show New York City streets from the 1960s to 1970s.
  • The photos reveal layers of color, light, and everyday scenes with unexpected details.
  • Meyerowitz carries a camera every day to capture chance moments.
  • His style combines alert observation with a sense of wit and sensitivity.
  • He was born in New York in 1938 and is considered an important street photographer.
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Major Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukraine kill several, wound dozens

Major Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukraine kill several, wound dozens

Summary

Russian missile and drone attacks hit multiple Ukrainian cities, killing at least nine people and wounding dozens. Ukraine’s air force said Russia launched hundreds of drones and missiles overnight, causing fires, power cuts, and building damage in Kyiv and other cities.

Key Facts

  • Russia launched 656 drones and 73 missiles at Ukraine overnight.
  • At least nine people died and dozens were wounded in the attacks.
  • Kyiv suffered missile strikes that caused fires, power outages, and trapped residents in damaged buildings.
  • Four people died and 58 were wounded in Kyiv, including two children.
  • Five people died and 25 were wounded in the city of Dnipro.
  • Ten people were wounded in Kharkiv, including one child.
  • Ukraine retaliated with a drone strike that killed one person in Russia’s Kursk region.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy warned of a “massive new strike” by Russia and requested Patriot missile systems from President Trump and the U.S. Congress to defend against attacks.
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‘I gave birth in the street“: Conflict makes childbirth risky in parts of Africa

‘I gave birth in the street“: Conflict makes childbirth risky in parts of Africa

Summary

In the Central African Republic, many women face dangerous childbirth conditions due to ongoing conflict and weak health systems. Cuts in humanitarian aid, including U.S. funding to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), have reduced access to maternal healthcare and increased risks for pregnant women.

Key Facts

  • A woman named Maude Ahmad Fadala gave birth in the street in a refugee camp without medical help due to lack of facilities.
  • Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest rate of maternal deaths, with around 182,000 women dying each year from pregnancy-related causes.
  • Nearly two-thirds of maternal deaths globally happen in countries affected by conflict or instability.
  • In the Central African Republic, women are 40 times more likely to die in childbirth than those in the United States.
  • Internal conflict has weakened the country’s health system and limited available services, especially outside major cities.
  • The Central African Republic's government started a plan in 2024 to increase maternal healthcare spending but has not reported on progress.
  • U.S. cuts to funding of the UNFPA have led to closure of midwife jobs, “safe spaces” for pregnant women, and health facilities in areas like Birao.
  • UNFPA's budget in the country has been cut by half in the last two years, leaving it as the only provider of reproductive health products.
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'Vitiforestry': French winemakers plant trees in bid to counter climate change

'Vitiforestry': French winemakers plant trees in bid to counter climate change

Summary

French winemakers are planting trees alongside grapevines, a practice called "vitiforestry," to protect vineyards from climate change effects like heatwaves and frost. This approach is based on an old tradition and is showing promising results in maintaining grape quality and yield during extreme weather.

Key Facts

  • Vitiforestry means growing trees together with grapevines in vineyards.
  • Trees provide shade during heatwaves and protect vines from spring frost.
  • The practice is traditional in countries like Italy and Greece but is now being revived in France.
  • French winegrowers are planting local tree species such as apple, pear, peach, hazelnut, and quince trees near the vines.
  • Initial results from the Rhône region showed vines with trees coped better during a 40°C heatwave in 2025.
  • Research shows that trees lower leaf and fruit temperatures, helping to save the harvest.
  • Regional governments in France support vitiforestry with subsidies and legal rules were established in 2024.
  • The method is expanding to major French wine areas like Bordeaux, Languedoc, and Champagne.
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'It was an easy decision': Man donates part of his brain to help find cure for dementia

'It was an easy decision': Man donates part of his brain to help find cure for dementia

Summary

Aidan McAllister, a 28-year-old man with a brain tumor, donated part of his healthy brain tissue during surgery to help researchers study dementia. This rare donation is being used to better understand how Alzheimer's disease damages brain connections, aiming to find new treatments.

Key Facts

  • Aidan McAllister was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumor in 2023.
  • During surgery to remove the tumor, doctors took a small piece of Aidan’s healthy brain tissue for dementia research.
  • The donated brain tissue is kept alive in the lab to study how Alzheimer’s disease harms brain cells.
  • Aidan’s grandfather died from severe dementia in 2020, which motivated him to help research.
  • The research focuses on toxic proteins that damage synapses, the parts of brain cells that send messages.
  • Normally, healthy brain tissue removed during surgery is discarded, but now it is used for medical study.
  • Neurosurgeon Paul Brennan and Dr. Claire Durrant lead this research through NHS Lothian and the University of Edinburgh.
  • Aidan is currently receiving chemotherapy and radiotherapy following surgery.
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Russian attack on Ukraine kills at least 11 and traps others in damaged buildings

Russian attack on Ukraine kills at least 11 and traps others in damaged buildings

Summary

Russia launched missiles and drones against Ukraine overnight, killing at least 11 people and injuring dozens. The attack damaged residential buildings in Kyiv and other cities, trapping some people under rubble, while rescue efforts continue.

Key Facts

  • At least 11 people died, including four in Kyiv and six in the city of Dnipro.
  • Dozens more were injured, including three children and one rescuer killed in a second strike during rescue efforts.
  • Residential buildings in eight districts of Kyiv were damaged.
  • Some people remain trapped under rubble in damaged apartment buildings.
  • Ukraine issued air raid alerts and urged citizens to seek shelter before the attack.
  • Rescue operations are ongoing amid continued air raid alerts.
  • Ukraine is asking its allies for more air defense missiles to protect against missile attacks.
  • Ukraine’s air defenses can intercept many drones, but ballistic missiles remain a challenge.
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