The EU is responding to the energy crisis caused by the conflict in the Middle East by focusing on renewable energy and energy efficiency rather than increasing fossil fuel use. European Commissioner Dan Jorgensen says that relying on fossil fuels is not a good solution and that the EU has strong plans and targets to reduce fossil fuel use by 2040.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Iran aimed at ending the war in the Middle East.
The conflict has caused major problems in global energy supplies, especially oil and gas.
The EU has taken steps since 2022 to use more renewable energy and improve energy efficiency to handle the crisis.
Dan Jorgensen compared using fossil fuels during the crisis to giving sugar to a diabetic—a it may worsen problems.
The EU has strict climate goals, including reducing fossil fuel use by 90% by 2040 under the Green Deal.
In the past year, the EU added nearly 90 gigawatts of new renewable energy capacity—enough to power 90 million homes.
Sales of electric vehicles are increasing rapidly within the EU.
The European Commission plans to introduce a new plan focused on electrification soon.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
An Israeli government official made a strong statement against Lebanon amid recent fighting between Israel and Hezbollah, an Iranian-supported group. This conflict continued despite a ceasefire effort backed by the U.S. and Iran.
Key Facts
Itamar Ben-Gvir is Israel’s national security minister and leader of the far-right Jewish Power party.
He said "all of Lebanon must burn," expressing a harsh stance on Lebanon.
Fighting occurred between Israel and Hezbollah, a militia group supported by Iran.
The clashes happened even though a ceasefire was in place, promoted by both the U.S. and Iran.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah across the Lebanon border.
Hezbollah is known to receive military and financial backing from Iran.
The conflict involves complex regional politics and long-standing disputes.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A man named Waleed Saeed was sentenced to 16 years in prison for sexually assaulting and blackmailing young Muslim men using fake social media profiles. He tricked victims into sending intimate images, then threatened to reveal them unless paid, and sometimes forced meetings to sexually assault them.
Key Facts
Waleed Saeed made over 100 fake social media accounts on platforms like Snapchat, Instagram, and Grindr.
He targeted young Muslim men and teenagers as young as 15, many identifying as gay or bisexual.
Saeed threatened to "out" victims to their families to blackmail them.
If victims couldn’t pay, he coerced them into in-person meetings where he sexually assaulted them.
He was convicted of 17 crimes including rape, blackmail, and making indecent images of children.
Saeed’s crimes were investigated after a victim reported a rape in August 2024.
Police believe there could be about 100 more victims.
The court said Saeed exploited cultural fears about homosexuality to threaten victims.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
President Donald Trump defended a recent memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by the US and Iran, aimed at ending hostilities involving the US, Israel, and Iran. Despite criticism and a pause in related negotiations, Trump said Iran agreed to negotiate out of desperation and that the deal had weakened Iran’s military power.
Key Facts
The US and Iran signed an MOU intended to end the US-Israel conflict with Iran.
Vice President JD Vance cancelled a planned trip to Switzerland to begin negotiations based on the MOU.
The MOU includes discussions on Iran’s nuclear program, the Strait of Hormuz, frozen Iranian assets, lifting sanctions, and a $300 billion Iran reconstruction plan.
Trump claims US military actions have weakened Iran’s navy, air force, and traditional forces.
Some Democrats and Republicans criticized the deal, saying it only addresses problems caused by the conflict.
Trump called Iran’s agreement an “unconditional surrender” and said Iran entered talks out of desperation.
Israeli fighting in Lebanon and political opposition have complicated the deal’s future.
A ceasefire in Lebanon was reportedly agreed after Israeli strikes, with Iran blaming the US for attacks there.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Achraf Hakimi, a Moroccan football player for PSG and captain of the Moroccan national team, will stand trial in France on a rape charge. The Paris appeals court confirmed the decision to send him to trial after an appeal by Hakimi was rejected.
Key Facts
Achraf Hakimi is a Moroccan footballer and plays for the club PSG.
He is also the captain of the Moroccan national football team.
In 2023, a woman accused Hakimi of rape.
An investigative judge decided in February 2026 that Hakimi should go to trial.
Public prosecutors recommended the trial.
Hakimi appealed this decision.
The Paris appeals court rejected his appeal on June 19, 2026.
This means Hakimi will face a criminal court trial in France.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The Met Office has issued an amber extreme heat warning for southern England and south-east Wales, forecasting temperatures up to 34°C early next week. The UK Health Security Agency also warned of health risks, especially for older people and those with medical issues, and highlighted dangers related to cold water shock during hot weather.
Key Facts
The amber extreme heat warning is the strongest in nearly four years for parts of England and Wales.
Temperatures are expected to reach around 30°C over the weekend, peaking at 34°C on Monday and Tuesday.
The UKHSA issued a separate amber heat health alert warning of increased risks for vulnerable groups and more water-related accidents.
Cold water shock can happen when entering cold water suddenly, causing rapid breathing, panic, and risk of drowning.
At least 15 people died in open water incidents during a previous hot spell in May.
Tropical nights, with temperatures not falling below 20°C, are likely in some areas next week.
The heatwave may cause isolated thunder showers early next week.
Hot weather is increasing car breakdowns due to overheating and tyre problems, with a 10% rise expected in roadside assistance calls.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Michael and Tanya Trotter, a husband and wife music duo called "The War and Treaty," spoke on CBS Mornings about their new songs and how they chose their band's name. They also shared details about working with Whoopi Goldberg.
Key Facts
Michael and Tanya Trotter are married musicians who perform together as "The War and Treaty."
They have released new music recently.
They appeared on CBS Mornings to discuss their work.
They explained the story behind their band's name.
They have collaborated with actress and TV host Whoopi Goldberg.
Their music blends different styles and themes.
The interview aims to introduce their latest projects to viewers.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Israel and Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire on June 19 after deadly fighting in Lebanon. The violence left at least 20 people dead in Lebanon and four Israeli soldiers killed, but the truce aims to stop more attacks.
Key Facts
Israel and Hezbollah made a deal to stop fighting on June 19, 2026.
Recent clashes caused the deaths of 20 people in Lebanon.
Four Israeli soldiers were also killed in the same fighting.
The violence threatened to break the peace agreement in the Middle East.
Israel’s far-right National Security Minister, Itamar Ben Gvir, responded strongly to the attacks.
US-Iran talks on a related issue were postponed amid increased tensions.
The situation remains uncertain despite the ceasefire agreement.
Attacks mainly occurred in southern Lebanon.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
EU leaders are meeting in Brussels to discuss the European Union's budget for the next seven years. The European Commission has proposed a €2 trillion spending plan, but some countries want to spend less while others push for more investment in technology and defense. The Commission also suggests creating new sources of income for the EU itself.
Key Facts
EU leaders from 27 countries are negotiating the next seven-year budget.
The proposed budget amount is €2 trillion by the European Commission.
Some countries called "frugal" think the budget is too large and want to spend less.
France supports higher spending, especially for technology and defense independence.
The European Commission wants to develop new "own resources," meaning new income sources for the EU.
The budget talks are expected to continue for six months.
The discussions reflect differing priorities among EU countries about the future of the bloc.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The article looks at the effects of Brexit, the United Kingdom's decision to leave the European Union, ten years after the vote. It explores how life in Britain has changed, including impacts on the economy and farming.
Key Facts
The article covers the ten-year anniversary of the Brexit vote.
It examines changes in the UK related to Brexit.
The report considers whether the quality of life for British people has improved.
Economic consequences of Brexit are reviewed.
The report looks at key industries affected, like agriculture (farming).
The article is part of a video report from France 24.
The content is connected to ongoing political events in the UK and Europe.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election, increasing pressure on Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer. Many Labour MPs believe Burnham is likely to become the next party leader and prime minister, though Starmer has said he will run in any leadership election. The situation raises questions about party unity and who has majority support among MPs.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election by a large margin.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is facing growing calls to step down.
Some Labour MPs think Burnham will become leader without a contested election (“coronation”).
Wes Streeting, a former health secretary, claims he has enough MP support to trigger a leadership contest.
Starmer automatically appears on the ballot as the current leader and plans to run again.
The prime minister must have the support of most MPs to lead the government.
Starmer warned that a leadership election could divide the Labour Party.
The outcome depends on whether Starmer still has enough MP support to continue as leader and prime minister.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The article highlights major stars and TV series featured at the Monte-Carlo Television Festival, including career awards for Kurt Russell and Kristin Scott Thomas and rising star Ester Expósito. It also previews the upcoming return of popular shows like "The Bear" and "House of the Dragon."
Key Facts
The Monte-Carlo Television Festival recently took place, showcasing TV industry events.
Kurt Russell and Kristin Scott Thomas received lifetime or career honors at the festival.
Actress Ester Expósito is recognized as a breakthrough star this month.
The article includes exclusive interviews and red carpet moments from the festival.
Upcoming new seasons of popular shows "The Bear" and "House of the Dragon" were announced.
The article is part of a cultural news series covering TV and entertainment news.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Israel and Hezbollah have agreed to renew a ceasefire after heavy fighting in southern Lebanon. Meanwhile, talks between the U.S. and Iran were paused because of the conflict, delaying efforts to reach a permanent peace deal.
Key Facts
Fighting in southern Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah caused deaths on both sides.
At least 21 people died in Lebanon and 4 Israeli soldiers were killed.
Israel hit Hezbollah targets in southern and eastern Lebanon following attacks on its forces.
Hezbollah said its attacks were responses to Israeli violations of the ceasefire.
Qatar, the U.S., and Iran helped mediate the renewed ceasefire.
Iran did not send officials to scheduled talks in Switzerland, demanding fighting stop first.
The conflict risks undoing an interim Iran nuclear deal that had eased tensions in the region.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu stated Israeli forces would stay in southern Lebanon for security needs.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The United States and Israel aim to strengthen their partnership by treating Israel as an active partner in defense and intelligence. They plan to work more closely on defense technology research, development, testing, and cooperation.
Key Facts
The U.S. and Israel want to build a stronger defense relationship.
Israel will be treated as a partner in mutual defense and intelligence efforts.
Both countries aim to speed up work on defense technology.
They plan to share more in research and development of defense projects.
Testing and evaluating new defense technology will happen together.
Industrial cooperation between the two countries will increase.
This effort is part of a defense authorization bill.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The US and Iran have a ceasefire deal that includes stopping fighting in Lebanon, but Israel continues military actions there. President Trump urges a complete ceasefire, while Iran says talks are on hold as Israel’s attacks continue. This situation challenges the peace agreement and US efforts to manage the conflict.
Key Facts
The US and Iran agreed on a ceasefire deal that calls for ending all military operations, including in Lebanon.
Israel is continuing military attacks in Lebanon, controlling about 20% of the country.
President Donald Trump wants a full ceasefire and calls for peace in the Middle East region.
Iran refuses to finalize the ceasefire deal while Lebanon is under attack.
Ceasefire talks between the US and Iran were postponed after deadly Israeli strikes in Lebanon.
Iran’s Supreme Leader received guarantees to protect Iranian interests and its allies like Hezbollah in Lebanon.
US groups supporting Israel say Israel needs to defend itself and criticize the ceasefire agreement’s restrictions.
Some analysts say Lebanon is the biggest test for the ceasefire and warn that fighting between Israel and Iran could resume.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Cuba has approved large economic changes that allow private investment in important industries. These reforms come as Cuba faces challenges from US sanctions and shortages of goods.
Key Facts
Cuba has made major changes to its economy.
The reforms allow private businesses to invest in key sectors.
The changes aim to address economic problems caused by US sanctions.
Cuba is experiencing shortages of many goods.
The government hopes these reforms will improve the economy.
Private investment was previously limited or restricted in Cuba.
These reforms mark a significant shift in Cuba’s economic policy.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized NATO allies for their defense efforts and said the Pentagon would review their performance. However, European leaders were already reviewing progress on key security goals like defense spending, military equipment production, and adopting lessons from the Ukraine war.
Key Facts
Pete Hegseth is the U.S. Defense Secretary.
He criticized NATO allies' defense efforts.
The Pentagon plans to review the allies’ performance.
European leaders are checking progress on security priorities.
These priorities include increased defense budgets and better military production.
Allies are working on using lessons from the war in Ukraine.
They are also focusing on drones, air defense, and long-range weapons.
The article is about NATO and international security cooperation.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Barack Obama said the US is worse off after 15 weeks of war with Iran, with many costs and little gain. He supports the recent ceasefire and criticized President Trump’s decision to leave the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, which he says led Iran to expand its nuclear program.
Key Facts
Obama said the US has spent billions and lost many lives in the 15-week conflict with Iran.
He expressed hope that the new ceasefire agreement will hold.
Obama criticized President Trump for ending the 2015 Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA).
The JCPOA stopped Iran from developing nuclear weapons in exchange for lifting sanctions.
Iran’s chief negotiator insists future talks must respect Iran’s “red lines,” including a ceasefire in Lebanon.
President Trump signed a memorandum of understanding with Iran in Paris to ease tensions.
Some energy experts warn that oil prices could rise due to disrupted oil supplies during the conflict.
Obama hopes his new presidential center will remind people of the US during his presidency.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Tropical Storm Arthur quickly formed and then weakened but continues to bring heavy rain and dangerous flooding in parts of the southeastern United States. Officials warn that flash flooding and river flooding could last into next week, even though the storm has a low chance of redeveloping.
Key Facts
Arthur was the first named storm of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season but was downgraded to a post-tropical cyclone by Wednesday night.
The storm’s remnants have caused several inches to more than a foot of rain in parts of the Gulf Coast, including southern Mississippi, Alabama, and the Florida Panhandle.
Heavy rain from Arthur could fall at rates of 2 to 4 inches per hour, increasing the risk of flash floods.
River flooding may continue for a longer time because many rivers in the area flow slowly and may not reach peak flood levels until next week.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) gives Arthur’s remnants a 10% chance of redeveloping into a tropical or subtropical storm in the next 48 hours and 7 days.
Flood watches remain in effect in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and the Florida Panhandle.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June through November 2026, with Arthur being the first storm in the list of planned names.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni denied President Donald Trump’s claim that she begged him for a photo at the G7 summit. The disagreement has caused anger in Italy and led to the cancellation of a planned trip by Italy’s foreign minister to the US.
Key Facts
President Trump said Meloni begged him to take a photo with her during the G7 summit.
Meloni responded by saying Trump’s story was completely made up.
Meloni expressed surprise and disappointment at Trump’s behavior toward allies.
Italy’s foreign minister, Antonio Tajani, canceled a trip to the US in protest.
The dispute follows a recent falling out between Meloni and Trump over Italy’s refusal to support a US-Israeli war in Iran and Trump’s criticism of Pope Leo.
Opposition leader Giuseppe Conte said Italy was humiliated by Trump’s remarks.
A government official said Trump’s comments harm US-European relations and make the US unpopular in Europe.
Meloni had previously maintained good relations with Trump, attending his presidential inauguration as the only European leader.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
