Hungary will shut down its only nuclear power plant because the Danube River has very low water levels, making it hard to cool the reactors. This is the first full shutdown of the Paks plant in its 44 years, which normally provides about half of Hungary’s electricity.
Key Facts
Hungary’s Paks Nuclear Power Plant will be fully shut down on Sunday due to low water levels in the Danube River.
The plant has four reactors and supplies nearly 50% of Hungary’s electricity.
Low river water reduces the plant’s ability to cool its reactors safely.
The current water level at Paks is expected to reach -144 cm, lower than the previous record of -98 cm from 2018.
Over 100 Hungarian cities and villages have water-use restrictions due to drought and heat.
The drought has also affected shipping, tourism, farming, and industry in Hungary.
Slovakia is monitoring the situation and is ready to assist if needed.
Scientists link the extreme heat and drought in Europe to human-caused climate change.
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Vincent Pastore, an actor famous for his role in the TV series "The Sopranos," has died at the age of 80. He was widely recognized for his work in this popular show.
Key Facts
Vincent Pastore was an actor.
He was best known for his role in "The Sopranos."
"The Sopranos" is a well-known television series.
Vincent Pastore died at the age of 80.
His death was reported by CBS News.
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A homemade bomb exploded near an Italian restaurant in central Moscow, killing three people and injuring at least 21. The blast happened when a woman carrying the device tried to enter the restaurant but was stopped by a security guard.
Key Facts
The explosion occurred around 8 p.m. near the Balzi Rossi Italian restaurant in Moscow.
Three people died: the woman carrying the bomb, a security guard, and a restaurant customer.
At least 21 others were injured with various levels of severity.
The woman was stopped from entering the restaurant by security before the bomb exploded.
Authorities have not yet named the victims or stated who is responsible.
Reports suggest the bomb was intended to harm guests on the restaurant’s outdoor terrace.
Some sources say the bomb may have been detonated remotely and the woman carrying it might have been unaware it was a bomb.
The restaurant was closed for a private event at the time of the explosion.
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Singapore has banned two members of the British band Massive Attack from returning to the country. This action followed their display of a Palestinian flag during a concert, which Singapore viewed as unapproved political support.
Key Facts
Two members of Massive Attack are barred from re-entering Singapore.
The band showed a Palestinian flag on stage during a performance.
Singapore investigated them for showing support for a political cause.
Displaying a foreign flag without permission is not allowed in Singapore.
The ban is connected to the flag incident at the concert.
Massive Attack is a British music group.
Singapore enforces rules on political displays and foreign symbols at events.
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Lana Isa and other content creators share their experiences of living alone and having few or no friends through social media videos. They highlight enjoying peace and solitude rather than feeling lonely, sparking both connection and debate among viewers.
Key Facts
Lana Isa is a software sales manager in Toronto who posts videos of her solo lifestyle.
Her TikTok video about spending Friday nights alone gained over 7 million views.
Isa’s social media following grew from 2,000 to over 175,000 in eight months.
She shares daily routines that focus on self-care and solitude instead of social gatherings.
Many viewers comment they relate to living alone or having few friends.
Some critics call these creators "loneliness influencers" and suggest they romanticize isolation.
Creators like Devon Noehring emphasize that being alone does not mean being lonely.
The videos challenge stigma around solitude, showing it as a choice for peace.
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The Peak District National Park Authority made a deal with car company Skoda to temporarily rename the park "Peaq District" to promote Skoda’s new electric car. The partnership brought extra money for park conservation but sparked protests from some residents and environmental campaigners who worry about commercial use of the park’s name.
Key Facts
Skoda and the Peak District National Park made a temporary deal to rebrand the park as "Peaq District."
The rebranding aimed to promote Skoda’s new electric vehicle model.
The park authority said the deal brought valuable funds for conservation, heritage, and access projects.
Some campaigners and locals protested, concerned that selling the park’s name conflicts with its environmental purpose.
National parks in the UK receive funding mostly from the government’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
Funding for national park authorities has decreased by around 40% since 2010, despite rising visitor numbers.
The government plans to invest £37 million in national parks over the next three years and £30 million more for special habitats and species.
The park authority’s chief executive said partnerships like this are needed due to declining government grants.
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Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman spoke with President Trump to express concern about plans for large strikes on Iran. Trump is considering attacking Iranian energy sites after Iran's missile strike on a U.S. base and ongoing disruptions in a key shipping route. Other regional countries and diplomats are also working to reduce tensions.
Key Facts
The Saudi Crown Prince warned President Trump about possible massive strikes on Iran.
Trump is considering attacks on Iranian energy targets due to Iran’s missile strike on a U.S. base in Jordan and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz shipping lane.
Iran has threatened retaliation against energy and infrastructure facilities in Israel and Gulf countries.
Saudi Arabia asked for more information and urged the U.S. to de-escalate the situation.
The Saudi Defense Minister met with U.S. officials to express support for reducing tensions with Iran.
Other regional countries like Qatar, the UAE, Turkey, and Pakistan are involved in talks to decrease conflict.
Iranian and regional diplomats are holding discussions aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and preventing further escalation.
Iran warned of a strong military response to any hostile actions involving the U.S., Israel, or their regional allies.
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The UK version of Love Island has seen a drop in TV viewers compared to its peak years but remains popular on streaming platforms. The US edition of Love Island is currently very successful, ranking as the top reality show on streaming services and gaining support from celebrities.
Key Facts
Love Island UK’s 13th series final attracted about 1.1 million viewers, less than last year’s 1.3 million and far below the 6 million viewers in 2019.
Over 60% of the UK audience now watches Love Island through streaming rather than traditional TV.
The UK series and its companion shows have had over 180 million streams on ITVX.
The US version’s eighth series was the number one reality show across all streaming platforms for five weeks.
US celebrities like Lizzo, Demi Lovato, Kesha, and Megan Thee Stallion support the US Love Island show.
Fans and commentators say the US version has more genuine romantic connections and more social media engagement.
Aaron Evans, a UK contestant who also appeared on the US version, credits the US success to fresh perspectives and strong social media presence.
Content creators on TikTok note Love Island is highly influential and regularly discussed on the platform.
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The new Spider-Man film, Brand New Day, stars Tom Holland as Peter Parker and follows the character after the events of No Way Home. The movie focuses on Peter protecting New York City while his friends forget who he is, and it has received mostly positive reviews for its emotional story and strong performances.
Key Facts
Brand New Day is Tom Holland’s fourth Spider-Man solo movie.
The film takes place after No Way Home and shows Peter Parker adapting to a new life.
Director Destin Daniel Cretton previously directed Shang-Chi and this is his second Marvel movie.
Zendaya returns as MJ, and Jon Bernthal appears as Punisher for the first time in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Sadie Sink joins the cast, but her role is kept secret.
Critics praised the personal and emotional focus of the story over more complex multiverse elements.
Fans say Holland delivers his best and most mature Spider-Man performance yet.
Some critics pointed out that CGI-heavy action scenes felt overused but highlighted strong chemistry between Holland and Zendaya.
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Alex West and Sam Knight chose to have vasectomies in their 20s after difficult experiences related to fatherhood. Vasectomies are a surgical procedure that prevents pregnancy by blocking sperm from leaving the testicles. More men in England and elsewhere are choosing the procedure, although younger men may face extra questions from doctors to confirm their choice.
Key Facts
Alex West had a vasectomy in his late 20s after traumatic experiences with his sons’ births and postnatal depression.
A vasectomy involves cutting and sealing the tubes (vas deferens) that carry sperm.
NHS England data shows 26,385 vasectomies were performed in 2024-25, a 16% increase from the previous year.
Men aged 35-39 had the highest number of vasectomies, but more men under 30 are also choosing the procedure.
Sam Knight, aged 22, decided on a vasectomy after his then-partner’s pregnancy ended in abortion.
Doctors often ask younger men if they are sure about the decision because vasectomies are meant to be permanent and reversals are expensive and not always successful.
Both men found the procedure quick and relatively painless.
Increasing numbers of men are choosing vasectomy to take responsibility for contraception.
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A criminal group called the Foxtrot Network hires teenagers across Europe to carry out murders and attacks. The group is linked to the Iranian regime and has been involved in about 35 killings and several attacks on Israeli targets. Europol is working with 11 countries to fight this “violence-as-a-service” problem.
Key Facts
The Foxtrot Network recruits teenagers via social media to commit violent crimes for money.
Since 2022, the network is believed to have caused around 35 murders and attacks in Europe.
The leader, Rawa Majid, is based in Tehran and reportedly works with the Iranian regime.
Some attacks include using explosives and hand grenades, including one at the Israeli embassy in Copenhagen.
Europol's task force GRIMM involves 11 countries, including Sweden, the UK, and Germany.
Many young hitmen are caught before they get paid, showing the network’s risky recruitment.
The UK government sanctioned Foxtrot and its leader in April 2025.
One arrested teenager, Johannes Natland, came from a well-off family but became involved with the gang through drug problems and online contact.
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A Russian cargo ship under US sanctions has delivered many military vehicles to Mali, helping Malian and Russian forces fight rebel groups in northern Mali. This shipment shows continued support from Russia’s government to Mali’s military junta, which is facing increased rebel attacks.
Key Facts
The sanctioned Russian ship Mikhail Britnev docked in Togo on 9 July, carrying trucks, armored personnel carriers, and light infantry vehicles.
Satellite images and expert analysis confirmed the type of military vehicles delivered to Mali’s capital, Bamako.
The ship left Russia’s Baltiysk port on 18 June and passed through European waters with escort from a Russian warship.
Mali’s military government has Russian support since French troops left in 2022, including backing from a group called Africa Corps tied to Russia’s defense ministry.
Mali’s junta faces a strong rebel offensive led by Islamist and separatist groups controlling large areas in northern Mali.
The vehicles were transported through Togo and Burkina Faso, both countries improving military ties with Russia.
The deliveries aim to strengthen forces to launch attacks to reclaim territory lost to rebels.
Amnesty International has called for an investigation into alleged war crimes involving Malian soldiers in recent clashes.
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The Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) has become the second-largest on record, with over 1,500 official deaths and faster spread than before. In contrast, Uganda, which also recorded some cases, managed to control the virus quickly, reporting only 20 cases and 2 deaths, thanks to strong preparedness and quick action.
Key Facts
The Ebola outbreak in DR Congo started in May and has over 1,500 official deaths, but the real number may be higher.
The virus is spreading faster in DR Congo than in past outbreaks.
Uganda recorded its first Ebola cases also in May but only had 20 cases and 2 deaths.
Uganda’s health system invested in preparedness, learning from past outbreaks to respond effectively.
Uganda activated a specialist Ebola treatment center quickly, which already had supplies and staff ready.
Most Ebola cases in Uganda came from people crossing the border from DR Congo.
Uganda closed its border with DR Congo to reduce the spread of the virus despite economic challenges.
DR Congo had delayed detection because they were testing only for common Ebola types, missing the rare Bundibugyo type causing the current outbreak.
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Andy Burnham, a UK political leader, says that giving more power and money control to regions supports the need for the UK to have a written constitution. The UK is one of few democracies without such a document, which clearly sets rules for how a country is governed.
Key Facts
The UK currently does not have a written constitution, unlike most major democracies.
Burnham’s devolution plan gives more financial control to regional leaders in England.
He believes these changes increase the need for a formal, written constitution.
A written constitution would clearly define the powers of local, regional, and national governments.
Historically, countries adopt written constitutions after major disruptions like war or revolution.
Burnham’s changes aim to reduce central government control from London’s Whitehall area.
The plan is partly inspired by Germany’s constitution, which promotes equal living standards across regions.
Such constitutional changes could limit how easily laws can be changed by the government.
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Vincent Pastore, an actor best known for playing Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on The Sopranos, has died at age 80. He was found in his home on Long Island after not being heard from for several days.
Key Facts
Vincent Pastore was 80 years old when he died.
He was well-known for his role as Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on the TV show The Sopranos.
Pastore often played mobster or tough guy characters in movies and TV shows.
He appeared in movies such as Goodfellas and Awakenings in 1990.
He was discovered by his manager after several days without contact.
Pastore was born in the Bronx and grew up in New Rochelle, New York.
He served in the navy during the Vietnam War.
He attended Pace University and had a daughter named Renee Pastore.
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Fifa President Gianni Infantino faces serious pressure after trying to sell stakes in Fifa competitions without informing other officials. Uefa, the European football authority, threatens to boycott Fifa events and has said it no longer trusts Infantino’s leadership, while other football groups demand a review.
Key Facts
Gianni Infantino was elected Fifa president in 2016 and is currently serving his third term.
Infantino tried to sell investment stakes in Fifa competitions privately, causing controversy.
Uefa threatened to boycott all Fifa competitions, including the World Cup, due to Infantino’s actions.
Other football federations like Concacaf and some Asian Football Confederation members have called for a review of Fifa’s leadership.
Two of Infantino’s close advisers, Carlos Cordeiro and Kevin Lamour, have left their positions.
Uefa declared it has lost confidence in Infantino’s leadership.
Removing Infantino could require a Fifa Council emergency meeting or an extraordinary congress of member associations.
Infantino could still run for a fourth term in March 2027, and any challenger must announce candidacy by November 2026.
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Vincent Pastore, an actor famous for playing mobsters and tough guys, especially as Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on the TV show "The Sopranos," has died at the age of 80. He was found at his home on New York’s City Island after not being heard from for several days.
Key Facts
Vincent Pastore was best known for his role as Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on the TV series "The Sopranos."
He died at the age of 80 and was found at his home on New York’s City Island.
His manager, Bob McGowan, learned of Pastore’s death from another actor, Vincent Curatola.
Pastore’s acting career included movies from the 1980s such as “Goodfellas” and “Awakenings.”
He often played gangster characters in films and TV shows.
Pastore was born in the Bronx, grew up in New Rochelle, New York, served in the Navy during the Vietnam War, and attended Pace University.
He had a daughter named Renee Pastore.
His manager described him as loyal, charitable, and helpful to others.
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Photographer Kieran Dodds has spent over ten years capturing portraits of people with red hair from various parts of the world. His latest project focuses on red-haired individuals in America, highlighting their diverse backgrounds, including Native American ancestry and mixtures with European heritage.
Key Facts
Kieran Dodds is a photographer from Edinburgh who has focused on photographing red-haired people since 2013.
His work has taken him to places known for red hair, including Scotland, Russia, and Jamaica.
Dodds noticed he had very few American subjects in his earlier book and then started photographing red-haired Americans.
Many Native Americans with red hair have European ancestry, often from Scottish, Irish, German, English, or Swedish roots.
Joshua Elliot, a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, is featured on the cover of Dodds’ new book "Gingers of America."
Some Native Americans, like Lakia Jones, have red hair without known European ancestry, displaying a unique deep ruby color.
The project reveals early marriages between Scots or Irish and Native Americans, contributing to the spread of red hair in the U.S.
Dodds made seven trips to the U.S., visiting states like Alabama, to explore the red-haired community and their stories.
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A tourist plane crashed near Nazca, Peru, killing all 13 people on board, including 11 passengers and 2 crew members. The plane took off from Pisco Airport and crashed around 12:55 p.m. local time; authorities are investigating the cause.
Key Facts
The crash happened near Nazca, a city in southern Peru known for the ancient Nazca Lines.
There were 13 people on the plane: 11 passengers and 2 crew members.
The plane departed from Pisco Airport in Peru.
The crash occurred around 12:55 p.m. local time on a Saturday afternoon.
The plane crashed in a field outside the city.
Peruvian police are investigating what caused the crash.
The Nazca Lines are large drawings made on the ground, recognized by UNESCO.
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More than 50,000 migrants crossed into the Spanish city of Ceuta from Morocco in a sudden surge, overwhelming border guards. Spain says the situation is now under control, but questions remain about who organized the mass crossing and why it happened on the same day.
Key Facts
Ceuta is a Spanish city on the northern coast of Africa, bordering Morocco.
Around 50,000 migrants crossed into Ceuta in just a few days, many by sea or climbing the border fence.
At least 67 people died trying to enter Ceuta during this event.
Spain’s Supreme Court issued a ruling in July limiting immediate returns of migrants who arrive by sea.
Spanish officials say human trafficking groups used the court ruling to encourage migrants to cross massively.
Some believe Morocco may have helped organize the surge to pressure Spain.
Morocco does not recognize Spain’s control of Ceuta and Melilla and has tense relations with Spain over Western Sahara.
Spain restored full diplomatic relations with Morocco in 2022 after a period of tension.
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