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French DJ ​and electropop ‌musician Kavinsky dies aged 50

French DJ ​and electropop ‌musician Kavinsky dies aged 50

Summary

French DJ and musician Vincent Belorgey, known as Kavinsky, was found dead at his home in Paris at the age of 50. He was famous for his 2010 song "Nightcall," which featured in the movie Drive and was recently performed at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Key Facts

  • Kavinsky’s real name was Vincent Belorgey.
  • He passed away at his home in Paris at age 50.
  • His 2010 track "Nightcall" became popular through the film Drive starring Ryan Gosling.
  • "Nightcall" became the most Shazamed song in one day after the Paris 2024 Olympics closing ceremony.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron and Culture Minister Catherine Pégard publicly praised Kavinsky’s impact on French culture.
  • Police say no suspicious signs were found at his home; a stroke is being considered as a possible cause of death.
  • Kavinsky started his career in the early 2000s and worked with French electronic music artists like Daft Punk.
  • At the Paris 2024 Olympics, a new version of "Nightcall" was performed by Belgian singer Angèle, Kavinsky, and the band Phoenix.
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Russia charges Telegram founder with aiding terrorism, seeks his arrest

Russia charges Telegram founder with aiding terrorism, seeks his arrest

Summary

Russia's security agency charged Pavel Durov, the founder of the Telegram messaging app, with helping terrorism and asked for his international arrest. Russian authorities accused Telegram of allowing channels used by Ukrainian intelligence and terrorists to plan attacks in Russia, leading to restrictions on the app.

Key Facts

  • Pavel Durov, creator of Telegram, was charged with aiding terrorism by Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB).
  • The FSB says Telegram failed to remove channels used by Ukrainian intelligence and terrorist groups.
  • Russian officials claim a Telegram chatbot recruited young Russians for attacks against law enforcement.
  • Telegram is officially based in Dubai, and Durov holds French and UAE citizenship; he lives outside Russia.
  • If found guilty, Durov could face life in prison in Russia.
  • Russia has blocked or restricted many foreign internet services to control online information.
  • Telegram’s earlier attempts to avoid Russian restrictions included denying charges accusing it of limiting free speech.
  • Russia promotes a domestic app called MAX, which lacks strong privacy protections and complies with government surveillance requests.
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Incoming heatwave set to worsen firefighting conditions in France's southwest

Incoming heatwave set to worsen firefighting conditions in France's southwest

Summary

A large wildfire in the Gironde area of southwest France has burned 42,000 hectares and caused over 220,000 people to evacuate. Firefighters are working to control the fire, but a new heatwave with very high temperatures is making the situation more difficult.

Key Facts

  • The wildfire is located in the Gironde department in southwest France.
  • So far, 42,000 hectares of land have been burned by the fire.
  • More than 220,000 people have been evacuated, including about 57,000 near Bordeaux overnight.
  • On July 28, there were about 14 cases of burnt areas catching fire again.
  • Firefighters continue to fight the fire, which is currently stable but still dangerous.
  • A heatwave with very high temperatures is hitting the region, making firefighting harder.
  • This wildfire is one of the worst France has ever faced.
  • Authorities are closely watching the situation due to the hot weather conditions.
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My Mom Had Pain in the Roof of Her Mouth. It Turned Out She Was Having a Heart Attack

My Mom Had Pain in the Roof of Her Mouth. It Turned Out She Was Having a Heart Attack

Summary

A woman’s mother experienced unusual pain in the roof of her mouth and extreme tiredness, which turned out to be signs of a heart attack. Thanks to knowledge gained at a heart health event, she went to the emergency room quickly, received life-saving treatment, and survived.

Key Facts

  • The mother had pain in the roof of her mouth and severe fatigue before going to the hospital.
  • Doctors discovered she was having a heart attack and performed emergency surgery.
  • Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the U.S.
  • Many women do not recognize heart attack symptoms because they can be subtle and different from common chest pain.
  • Symptoms can include jaw pain, toothache-like pain, and unusual tiredness.
  • Only 44% of women know heart disease is their greatest health risk.
  • The author hopes sharing this story will help others recognize warning signs and seek help early.
  • Awareness and quick action can save lives, especially for women who may experience less typical heart attack symptoms.
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US blocks Iranian missile barrage as pause in fighting falters | First Thing

US blocks Iranian missile barrage as pause in fighting falters | First Thing

Summary

The US military intercepted all Iranian missiles launched at US forces in the Middle East and worked with Saudi Arabia to strike militia sites in Iraq. These attacks ended a short pause in fighting between the US and Iran. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu met with President Trump in Washington for talks.

Key Facts

  • Iran fired ballistic missiles at US forces in the Middle East on Tuesday.
  • The US military said all Iranian missiles were intercepted by defense systems.
  • The US and Saudi forces struck militia sites in Iraq linked to Tehran.
  • The missile attack happened during Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s visit to Washington.
  • Netanyahu and President Trump held a private meeting for nearly 90 minutes.
  • The US sees the missile attack as a surprise attempt by Iran to escalate fighting.
  • Closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to the conflict poses risks to global marine life by potentially spreading invasive species.
  • President Trump also met Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy on the same day to discuss defense and diplomacy.
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One Group of Americans May Face Different Alzheimer's Risks, Study Finds

One Group of Americans May Face Different Alzheimer's Risks, Study Finds

Summary

New research shows that South Asian Americans might have different risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease compared to other groups. The study highlights that managing diabetes, heart health, vision, hearing, and social connections could help reduce dementia risk in this community.

Key Facts

  • South Asian Americans are underrepresented in Alzheimer’s research in the U.S.
  • Review of studies from India suggests South Asians face unique genetic and health risks for dementia.
  • Diabetes and metabolic health issues are especially important for dementia risk in South Asians.
  • South Asians may develop diabetes earlier and at lower body weight than other groups.
  • Diabetes in South Asians may involve different causes and respond differently to treatments.
  • Limited education may raise dementia risk more in South Asians compared to the world average.
  • Vision and hearing loss are common and linked to higher dementia risk in South Asian populations.
  • Preventing dementia may require early and specific management of heart and metabolic health for South Asians.
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Ukraine says it hit a major Russian oil refinery, hours after Zelenskyy’s meeting with Trump

Ukraine says it hit a major Russian oil refinery, hours after Zelenskyy’s meeting with Trump

Summary

Ukraine said it struck a major Russian oil refinery called Ryazan using drones, causing fires and hospitalizing six people. This attack happened hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington to discuss support against Russia.

Key Facts

  • Ukraine attacked the Ryazan oil refinery in Russia overnight with drones and missiles.
  • Ryazan refinery produces gasoline, diesel, aviation fuel, and other petroleum products.
  • The refinery can process about 17 million tons of oil each year.
  • The attack caused fires and six people were hospitalized due to drone debris.
  • Ryazan is located about 400 kilometers (180 miles) from Ukraine’s border.
  • President Zelenskyy met President Trump in Washington the same day to talk about U.S. support.
  • Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil facilities have caused a fuel crisis in Russia.
  • Zelenskyy emphasized increasing pressure on Russia to end the war sooner.
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‘Super Troopers’ at 25: A quarter-century of mustaches and maple syrup — and a new film

‘Super Troopers’ at 25: A quarter-century of mustaches and maple syrup — and a new film

Summary

The comedy group Broken Lizard is celebrating 25 years since their movie "Super Troopers" first came out. The original film, made for less than $3 million, became a cult favorite, and now they have released a third movie in the series. The group, made up of college friends, continues to make movies together, showing strong friendship and teamwork.

Key Facts

  • "Super Troopers" was first released in 2001 and made about $23 million in theaters.
  • The movie was created by Broken Lizard, a group of college friends from Colgate University.
  • The film features a team of funny Vermont state troopers and was directed by Jay Chandrasekhar.
  • The original movie became popular on VHS and DVD, turning into a cult hit.
  • Broken Lizard has made several movies since then, including "Super Troopers 2" in 2018.
  • They used crowdfunding to help finance "Super Troopers 2."
  • "Super Troopers 3" is set to be released by Searchlight Pictures on August 7, 2026.
  • The group values their long-term friendship as a key part of their movies’ charm.
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EU crisis chief urges tougher climate action amid France, Spain wildfires

EU crisis chief urges tougher climate action amid France, Spain wildfires

Summary

The European Union’s crisis chief says the EU must act faster and invest more in fighting climate change as wildfires continue in France and Spain. Both countries are facing heatwaves that increase fire risks, leading to large evacuations.

Key Facts

  • France and Spain are dealing with serious wildfires during a heatwave.
  • About 330,000 people have been evacuated: 220,000 in France and 110,000 in Spain.
  • The worst fires in France are in the Gironde region, where over 42,000 hectares have burned.
  • Temperatures in the affected areas could reach up to 42°C (108°F), raising fire dangers.
  • The EU wants more money for climate action, better education on fire risks, and improved forest care.
  • Europe is warming faster than other continents, increasing health and economic risks.
  • Spain’s weather agency warns of “very high” or “extreme” wildfire risk in most of the country.
  • Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez criticized climate denial as very harmful during this crisis.
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Russia charges Telegram founder Pavel Durov with ‘aiding terrorism’

Russia charges Telegram founder Pavel Durov with ‘aiding terrorism’

Summary

Russian authorities have charged Pavel Durov, the founder of the messaging app Telegram, with helping terrorism and issued an international arrest warrant for him. Russia says Telegram did not remove channels used by groups that planned attacks in Russia.

Key Facts

  • Pavel Durov co-founded Telegram, an encrypted messaging app.
  • Russia’s FSB security agency accused Telegram of allowing terrorist-related channels to operate.
  • The charges claim these channels were used to prepare attacks like sabotage, killings, and cyber-fraud in Russia.
  • Telegram’s official response included a photo of Durov making a rude gesture after the charges were announced.
  • Russia is restricting apps like Telegram and WhatsApp while promoting its own messaging app, MAX, which shares data with the government and lacks strong encryption.
  • Pavel Durov was born in Russia but now has passports from the UAE and France.
  • Russia previously pressured Durov to give access to pro-democracy activists’ data, which he refused.
  • Durov also faces a legal investigation in France related to Telegram’s handling of criminal content.
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Prince Harry Faces Costs Battle in Failed $67m Daily Mail Lawsuit

Prince Harry Faces Costs Battle in Failed $67m Daily Mail Lawsuit

Summary

Prince Harry and six other public figures lost a lawsuit against the Daily Mail publisher, which claimed reporters used illegal methods to gather information. The court ruled against them, and now the publisher is seeking over $67 million in costs to be paid by the claimants. A judge will decide how much they must pay after a hearing in July.

Key Facts

  • Prince Harry and six others, including Sir Elton John and Elizabeth Hurley, sued the Daily Mail publisher for alleged illegal information gathering.
  • The case involved claims like phone hacking and use of private investigators to get personal information.
  • After a 10-week trial in London’s High Court, all claims were dismissed by Judge Matthew Nicklin.
  • The judge found no proof that the newspapers used unlawful methods for their stories.
  • The publisher, Associated Newspapers Limited, wants to recover over £50 million (about $67 million) in legal costs.
  • Prince Harry is not expected to attend the upcoming court hearing on the costs issue.
  • The lawsuit began in 2022 and included emotional claims from Harry about the press damaging his relationship with ex-girlfriend Chelsy Davy.
  • The former editor of the Daily Mail called the lawsuit a conspiracy against the newspaper group after winning the case.
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What should replace the American-led world order? | Aslı Bâli and Samuel Moyn

What should replace the American-led world order? | Aslı Bâli and Samuel Moyn

Summary

The article discusses the decline of the American-led world order, known as Pax America, and argues that trying to return to the old system is not practical. Instead, it suggests creating a new international approach based on limits to war and violence, where multiple world powers agree to respect certain rules to maintain peace.

Key Facts

  • The American-led world order (Pax America) is currently declining.
  • Many people hope to return to the old system, but this is unrealistic and overlooks its flaws.
  • The old order often involved hypocrisy and did not benefit many countries outside the Western world.
  • The article proposes an antiwar agenda centered on four key commitments related to self-defense, respect for borders, avoiding proxy wars, and limiting arms sales.
  • This agenda focuses on mutual restraint rather than enforcing global rules from one dominant power.
  • The rise of multiple global powers (multipolarity) could lead to a more stable world order based on cooperation rather than dominance.
  • The danger remains that a declining American role might lead to more violence without these new agreements.
  • The proposed changes build on lessons from the post-World War II international system but do not try to recreate it fully.
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Japan quake toll rises, people still missing in damaged mall and factory

Japan quake toll rises, people still missing in damaged mall and factory

Summary

A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 struck the Kumamoto area in southwestern Japan, killing at least 18 people and injuring 62. Rescue teams continue searching damaged buildings, including a shopping mall and a factory, where people are still missing.

Key Facts

  • The earthquake hit on July 27, 2026, in Kumamoto, on Japan’s southern island of Kyushu.
  • At least 18 people have died, and 62 others were injured, six seriously.
  • The Aeon Mall in Kashima city was heavily damaged, with a gas explosion causing further harm and trapping people inside.
  • Three employees are still missing at the mall, and three deaths were confirmed from the explosion.
  • A collapsed chimney at a Nippon Paper Industries factory killed five people, with four others still missing.
  • Nearly 34,900 homes had no electricity, and about 15,000 had no water after the quake.
  • More than 8,800 people evacuated to over 400 shelters where air conditioning was provided due to hot weather.
  • Japan’s Self Defense Forces and firefighters from Taiwan joined rescue efforts, with officials calling it a race against time.
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Alzheimer's Blood Tests Could Help High-Risk Group Get Diagnosed Earlier

Alzheimer's Blood Tests Could Help High-Risk Group Get Diagnosed Earlier

Summary

New research shows that two blood tests used to detect signs of Alzheimer's disease can accurately identify the condition in people with Down syndrome. These tests could make it easier to diagnose Alzheimer's earlier in this high-risk group, replacing more invasive methods like brain scans or spinal taps.

Key Facts

  • People with Down syndrome have a very high risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, with over 90% affected in their lifetime.
  • The study tested two blood tests, Lumipulse G p-tau217/β-Amyloid 1-42 and PrecivityAD2, which detect biological markers linked to Alzheimer's.
  • These blood tests found signs of Alzheimer’s-related brain changes with similar accuracy as in the general population.
  • The research included 39 people with Down syndrome who had both blood tests and brain scans (PET scans).
  • Blood tests could be a simpler and more accessible way to screen for Alzheimer's than current methods like PET scans or lumbar punctures.
  • Diagnosing Alzheimer’s in people with Down syndrome is challenging because symptoms may look different and overlap with lifelong intellectual disabilities.
  • Early signs of Alzheimer’s in this group often include changes in behavior or planning skills rather than memory loss.
  • Researchers developed initial cutoff points in test results to help distinguish who has Alzheimer’s brain changes among people with Down syndrome.
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How has the Indian government responded to ‘Cockroach’ protests?

How has the Indian government responded to ‘Cockroach’ protests?

Summary

The Indian government responded to large protests against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s rule by arresting many young protesters and using police force. After the Supreme Court ordered the release of minors, some arrested protesters were freed, but authorities continue to monitor and take action against social media accounts criticizing the government.

Key Facts

  • Protests began in June at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi over leaked medical exam papers and called for education reforms.
  • Hundreds of protesters, including those under 18, were arrested in states ruled by Modi’s BJP party.
  • India’s Supreme Court ordered the release of all arrested minors involved in the protests.
  • Several states, including West Bengal, Maharashtra, Bihar, Assam, and Delhi, stopped actions against protesters and planned to withdraw cases.
  • Police used tear gas, batons, and pellet guns against protesters in New Delhi and other places.
  • There are reports that the government used AI surveillance to track protesters, leading to legal challenges.
  • Police filed complaints against social media posts they say insult constitutional leaders and requested user data from the platform X (formerly Twitter).
  • The protests caused Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to resign, which is seen as a rare setback for Modi.
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A safe space for Gaza women: A sanctuary to speak, heal and share amid war

A safe space for Gaza women: A sanctuary to speak, heal and share amid war

Summary

In Gaza, a women-only safe space offers psychological support and group discussions for women affected by the ongoing war. Many women, like Ola Saleh, who lost their husbands and are now heads of households, use the space to talk, heal, and share their feelings amid difficult living conditions.

Key Facts

  • Ola Saleh is a 39-year-old woman living in a tent in al-Amal camp, Gaza, who attends a daily women-only support group.
  • Her husband was killed in August 2023 during the Israel-Palestine conflict, leaving her to care for five children alone.
  • About 16,000 women in Gaza have lost their husbands since the war began in October 2023, making nearly one in seven families led by a woman.
  • The support program is run by Collective Development Projects, providing psychological help and practical advice.
  • Sessions started recently at the al-Farah School and have quickly grown in attendance, with up to 75 women per day.
  • The safe space helps women express emotions, gain strength, and learn to handle family and social challenges during displacement.
  • Women face harsh living conditions in tents, often without electricity or ventilation, and focus heavily on survival needs.
  • The program also raises awareness on mental health, family pressure, economic difficulties, and child care during the war.
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Russia charges Telegram founder Durov with facilitating terrorism

Russia charges Telegram founder Durov with facilitating terrorism

Summary

Russia has charged Pavel Durov, the founder of the messaging app Telegram, with helping terrorists. Russian security services say Telegram was used by Ukrainian agents to plan attacks inside Russia, and they have issued an international arrest warrant for Durov, who lives outside Russia.

Key Facts

  • Russia’s FSB security agency claims Telegram was used to organize sabotage and terrorist acts inside Russia.
  • Telegram is accused of not removing channels and bots linked to Ukraine’s secret services.
  • An international arrest warrant has been issued for Pavel Durov.
  • Pavel Durov was born in Russia but lives abroad and holds French and UAE passports.
  • Telegram remains popular in Russia despite government attempts to limit access.
  • Durov denies the accusations and says Russian authorities want to restrict access to Telegram.
  • It is unknown if other countries will cooperate with Russia’s arrest warrant.
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War expands with joint U.S.-Saudi strikes on Iran proxy groups in Iraq

War expands with joint U.S.-Saudi strikes on Iran proxy groups in Iraq

Summary

The United States and Saudi Arabia carried out airstrikes on Iranian-backed forces in Iraq, killing at least 20 fighters. This followed recent missile and drone attacks by Iran and its allies against U.S. and Saudi targets in the region.

Key Facts

  • U.S. and Saudi forces launched strikes on Iran-backed groups in eastern Iraq.
  • The Popular Mobilization Forces, an Iraqi paramilitary group backed by Iran, reported at least 20 fighters killed and 32 wounded.
  • The strikes targeted logistics and weapons sites used by Iranian proxies.
  • Over 30 drone attacks on U.S. forces and Saudi energy facilities were attempted in the prior three days.
  • Jordan intercepted and destroyed five Iranian missiles fired early Wednesday.
  • The U.S. military said it stopped a missile attack aimed at American forces and worked with Saudi Arabia on the retaliatory strikes.
  • Iran’s Revolutionary Guards struck and stopped three oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, claiming they ignored warnings.
  • The Houthi group, supported by Iran, fired ballistic missiles at a Saudi tanker in the Red Sea.
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Where Hurricane Trouble Could Strike Next—Map Shows Risk Zone for Weeks Ahead

Where Hurricane Trouble Could Strike Next—Map Shows Risk Zone for Weeks Ahead

Summary

The southeastern coast of the United States, including areas near Florida, the Carolinas, Cuba, the Bahamas, and Bermuda, could see the formation of tropical storms in early to mid-August. Forecasters say there is no immediate threat, but the area needs to be monitored due to favorable conditions like warm water and weakening winds.

Key Facts

  • No tropical storms are expected in the Atlantic in the next few days.
  • A broad zone near the U.S. coast may produce tropical rainstorms or depressions by early to mid-August.
  • Warm ocean water and lower wind shear could help storms form in that region.
  • Tropical systems can develop if thunderstorms gather and separate from weather fronts to form low pressure areas with warm cores.
  • A quickly forming storm near shore could cause heavy rain, flooding, and strong winds with little warning.
  • This watch area follows the recent storms Arthur and Bertha, the second named storm this season.
  • Forecasters expect a below-average to average hurricane season in 2026 due to a strong El Niño, which tends to reduce storm formation.
  • NOAA predicts 8 to 14 named storms this season, with 3 to 6 becoming hurricanes and 1 to 3 possibly major hurricanes.
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What to know about the earthquake's aftermath in Japan

What to know about the earthquake's aftermath in Japan

Summary

A powerful earthquake measuring 7.1 hit Kumamoto prefecture in southwest Japan, causing significant damage. The earthquake destroyed homes, caused fires, broke bridges, cut power, and resulted in at least 18 confirmed deaths so far as rescue efforts continue.

Key Facts

  • The earthquake struck Kumamoto prefecture in southwest Japan.
  • The magnitude of the earthquake was estimated at 7.1.
  • Five people died at a damaged factory where part of a large smokestack collapsed.
  • At least 13 people died after a shopping mall was badly damaged.
  • The earthquake flattened homes and started fires in the affected area.
  • Several bridges were broken due to the quake.
  • Thousands of people lost electricity following the earthquake.
  • Rescue efforts to find survivors are still ongoing.
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