The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

From the Brits to the brink, Bad Boy Chiller Crew are back

From the Brits to the brink, Bad Boy Chiller Crew are back

Summary

Bad Boy Chiller Crew, a music group from Bradford, experienced a pause in their career due to a legal dispute with their former record label. They have now resolved the issue and are releasing music independently. The band is focused on making a comeback by releasing new music and connecting with their audience again.

Key Facts

  • Bad Boy Chiller Crew was nominated for group of the year at the Brits in 2023.
  • Their contract with record label House Anxiety expired, leading to a legal dispute.
  • The group could not release music during this legal battle.
  • In July, a judge confirmed their record deal had expired.
  • The band considered splitting up during this difficult period.
  • They are now releasing music independently.
  • Bad Boy Chiller Crew's single "BMW" reached the UK top 10 in 2022.
  • The band's case regarding royalty payments with the label is still in progress.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

China Eyes Russian Planes To Fuel Air Force Fighter Jets: Reports

China Eyes Russian Planes To Fuel Air Force Fighter Jets: Reports

Summary

China is reportedly considering buying about 20 IL-78 aircraft from Russia, according to a leaked document from a Russian defense company. The purchase would help China enhance its aerial refueling capabilities as part of its plan to build a stronger air force. This move aligns with China's goal to have a world-class military by mid-century.

Key Facts

  • China is looking to buy nearly two dozen Russian IL-78 tanker aircraft.
  • The leaked document is from a Russian state-owned defense company.
  • The IL-78 aircraft were first introduced in 1984 as aerial refuelers.
  • China wants to increase its aerial operations reach, including in the South China Sea and around Taiwan.
  • A hacker group called "Black Mirror" released over 300 documents allegedly from Rostec, the parent company of Ilyushin.
  • The leaked letter was dated September 13, 2023, and mentions an order for 20 IL-78 aircraft.
  • China has historically relied on Russia for over two-thirds of its military imports between 2009 and 2024.
  • China currently uses YY-20 tankers and is phasing out older H-6 tankers.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

WFP says food supplies to Gaza below targets, urges more crossings to open

WFP says food supplies to Gaza below targets, urges more crossings to open

Summary

The UN World Food Programme (WFP) says food supplies to Gaza have improved since a US-brokered ceasefire, but the amount is still below the needed level. Only two border crossings are open, allowing about 750 tonnes of food into Gaza daily, which is less than the 2,000 tonnes needed. More crossings and continued peace are needed to provide sufficient aid.

Key Facts

  • The WFP aims to deliver 2,000 tonnes of food daily to Gaza.
  • Currently, only 750 tonnes of food are entering Gaza each day.
  • Just two crossings, Karem Abu Salem and al-Karara, are open for aid.
  • The US-brokered ceasefire, led by President Donald Trump, is crucial for aid delivery.
  • Israel's Rafah crossing with Egypt remains closed, pending conditions.
  • The WFP has increased food distribution points in Gaza from 5 to 26, aiming for 145.
  • People in Gaza are rationing their food supplies due to uncertainty.
  • The conflict in Gaza has severely affected food security in the area.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Warnings Issued For Nearly Entire US West Coast

Warnings Issued For Nearly Entire US West Coast

Summary

The National Weather Service has issued weather alerts for most of the U.S. West Coast due to expected severe conditions, including sneaker waves and high surf. These conditions are caused by strong winds and an impending atmospheric river, which is a narrow band of moist air in the atmosphere. Residents and beachgoers are advised to stay out of the water and follow local warnings.

Key Facts

  • The weather alerts cover nearly the entire western U.S. coastline.
  • An atmospheric river is expected to impact the Pacific Northwest soon.
  • Alerts include high surf advisories, beach hazards, and dense fog advisories.
  • Sneaker waves are a serious danger, as they can strike unexpectedly.
  • Sneaker waves have caused more deaths than other weather hazards on the West Coast.
  • People are advised to avoid the water and stay off the rocks and jetties.
  • Dangerous conditions include large waves, rip currents, and risk of drowning.
  • Most warnings are in effect until at least Wednesday, with some lasting into Thursday.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Invasion Drills Held on Both Sides of Taiwan Strait

Invasion Drills Held on Both Sides of Taiwan Strait

Summary

China and Taiwan have recently conducted military exercises amid ongoing tensions in the Taiwan Strait. China claims sovereignty over Taiwan and has prepared its forces for possible amphibious assaults. Taiwan is focusing on strengthening its defense capabilities with weapons from the U.S.

Key Facts

  • China and Taiwan held military drills due to high tensions in the Taiwan Strait.
  • China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and considers using force for "unification."
  • President Donald Trump noted that China's President Xi Jinping promised no invasion while Trump is in office.
  • The Chinese military's Eastern Theater Command practiced missile strikes and amphibious assaults.
  • Taiwan's military focused on anti-submarine warfare, surveillance, and mine-laying.
  • Taiwan is acquiring U.S. weapons to boost its defense against potential invasion.
  • The U.S. continues naval operations in the Taiwan Strait to assert freedom of navigation.
  • Both sides emphasize readiness to protect their interests and maintain regional stability.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Europe's leaders back Trump call for frontline freeze but Russia says no

Europe's leaders back Trump call for frontline freeze but Russia says no

Summary

European leaders, along with Ukraine's President Zelensky, support President Trump's call for a ceasefire in Ukraine, starting at the current battle lines. However, Russia has rejected this idea, insisting on its conditions for peace. President Trump is planning discussions with Russia's President Putin, amid ongoing disagreements on how to resolve the conflict.

Key Facts

  • European leaders and Ukraine back President Trump's call for a ceasefire at the current front line in Ukraine.
  • Russia, represented by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, dismissed the idea of a ceasefire based on current lines.
  • President Trump is planning to hold talks with President Putin in Budapest.
  • President Trump and Ukraine's President Zelensky recently discussed a potential agreement involving territory in Donetsk and Luhansk.
  • Russia has taken control of most of Luhansk, while Ukraine still holds parts of Donetsk.
  • Russia wants Ukrainian troops to withdraw from conflict areas and seeks full sovereignty over Donbas.
  • There are logistical challenges for Putin to travel to Budapest due to airspace restrictions and an international arrest warrant.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

US Trade War Slows China’s Economy

US Trade War Slows China’s Economy

Summary

China's economy grew by 4.8% in the third quarter, the slowest growth in the past year, mainly due to trade tensions with the United States. President Donald Trump has continued trade policies that include planned tariffs on Chinese imports, while China is seeking new markets for its exports. Both nations are looking for agreements, but reaching a deal remains challenging.

Key Facts

  • China's economy grew by 4.8% in the third quarter, the slowest rate in a year.
  • The trade war initiated by President Trump continues to impact China's economy.
  • China plans to impose tighter controls on rare earth elements.
  • President Trump announced a 100% tariff on all Chinese imports starting next month.
  • Despite trade issues, China's exports reached a six-month high in September.
  • China's exports to the U.S. fell by 27% last month.
  • The consumer price index in China fell by 0.1 percentage points in the first three quarters compared to the previous year.
  • China focuses on producing high-tech goods like lithium-ion batteries and solar cells.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Ecuador releases survivor of US strike on 'drug sub' in Caribbean

Ecuador releases survivor of US strike on 'drug sub' in Caribbean

Summary

Ecuador released a survivor of a U.S. military strike on a submarine in the Caribbean that was allegedly smuggling drugs. President Trump stated that the survivor and a Colombian national, both captured during the operation, would return to their home countries for legal proceedings. However, the Ecuadorean Attorney General said there was no legal basis to detain the Ecuadorean survivor.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. military attacked a submarine in the Caribbean suspected of smuggling drugs.
  • One Ecuadorean and one Colombian national survived the attack and were captured by U.S. forces.
  • President Trump said the two men would be sent back to their countries for further action.
  • The Ecuadorean Attorney General's office declared there was no evidence to detain the Ecuadorean survivor.
  • There have been a series of U.S. strikes in the Caribbean region targeting alleged drug-smuggling vessels.
  • Two other men were killed during this specific U.S. attack on the submarine.
  • Experts have questioned the legality of these strikes, saying they might violate international laws.
  • The Colombian survivor arrived in Bogotá with serious injuries and is receiving medical treatment.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Jewels stolen from Louvre worth an estimated $102 million, Paris prosecutor says

Jewels stolen from Louvre worth an estimated $102 million, Paris prosecutor says

Summary

Thieves stole jewels worth about $102 million from the Louvre Museum in Paris. The heist took place in the Louvre's Apollo Gallery and lasted less than eight minutes. The stolen jewels have significant historical value beyond their monetary worth.

Key Facts

  • The stolen jewels are valued at approximately 88 million euros ($102 million), not including their historical importance.
  • About 100 investigators are working on the case to find the suspects and the missing jewels.
  • The theft occurred in the Apollo Gallery, home to the French crown jewels, at the Louvre Museum.
  • The heist took less than eight minutes, including less than four minutes inside the museum.
  • Louvre security systems were reported to have functioned correctly during the theft.
  • Questions remain about how the thieves managed to carry out the heist despite working security cameras.
  • The stolen items include a sapphire diadem and other jewelry pieces associated with French royalty.
  • France's culture minister has initiated an administrative inquiry alongside the police investigation.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Virginia Giuffre Book: 7 Biggest Revelations

Virginia Giuffre Book: 7 Biggest Revelations

Summary

Virginia Giuffre's memoir released after her death includes serious allegations of abuse by her father and being trafficked to Prince Andrew at the age of 17. Her book also discusses her experiences with Jeffrey Epstein and a legal settlement involving Prince Andrew related to Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee. Virginia Giuffre died by suicide in April.

Key Facts

  • Virginia Giuffre wrote about being abused by her father and trafficked to Prince Andrew at 17.
  • Giuffre accused Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell of abusing her and lending her out to powerful people.
  • She described a meeting with Prince Andrew where he correctly guessed her age as 17.
  • Prince Andrew has denied her accusations, and there is no admission of liability in legal settings.
  • A legal settlement between Giuffre and Prince Andrew included a gag order to protect royal celebrations.
  • Giuffre's memoir was released after her death by suicide, which occurred in April.
  • She wrote about her struggles with abuse and social media attacks before her death.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Third survivor quits grooming gang inquiry panel

Third survivor quits grooming gang inquiry panel

Summary

Three abuse survivors have stepped down from a government inquiry into grooming gangs. The survivors resigned, saying the process felt like a cover-up and was not addressing the crimes properly. The government insists it is committed to the inquiry, despite disagreements over its leadership and scope.

Key Facts

  • Three survivors have left a government inquiry into grooming gangs.
  • The survivors argued that the process wasn’t effectively confronting the issues.
  • Elizabeth, one of the survivors, claimed the inquiry felt like a cover-up.
  • Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips denied the cover-up claims and pledged government commitment.
  • Annie Hudson, a potential leader for the inquiry, withdrew her candidacy.
  • Survivors met with another potential chair, Jim Gamble, to discuss concerns.
  • Some survivors believe people with policing or social work backgrounds should not chair the inquiry.
  • The government inquiry is managed by a charity, not directly by the government.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Doubts emerge over Trump-Putin Budapest summit

Doubts emerge over Trump-Putin Budapest summit

Summary

There is uncertainty about when a meeting between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin will take place to discuss a ceasefire in Ukraine. The Kremlin stated that there is no set date for the summit, and preparations could take time. Planned discussions between Russian and U.S. diplomats have been delayed, further dimming hopes for a quick resolution.

Key Facts

  • The meeting between Presidents Trump and Putin aims to discuss a ceasefire in Ukraine.
  • The Kremlin indicated there is no precise timeframe for the summit.
  • Preparations for the meeting may require time and careful planning.
  • A preparatory meeting between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and U.S. Senator Marco Rubio is not happening this week.
  • The U.S. and Russia may have different views on the conditions needed to end the conflict.
  • Russia maintains its stance from a previous summit held in Alaska.
  • Moscow's demands include territorial concessions and Ukraine's neutrality.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and European leaders accuse Russia of delaying peace efforts.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

4.9 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Argentina, Reportedly Felt in Chile

4.9 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Argentina, Reportedly Felt in Chile

Summary

A 4.9 magnitude earthquake struck northeast of Aconcagua in Argentina. The quake was also felt in Chile, but there were no reports of damage or injuries, and no tsunami warning was issued.

Key Facts

  • The earthquake had a magnitude of 4.9.
  • It occurred in Argentina, northeast of Aconcagua.
  • The quake was felt in parts of both Argentina and Chile.
  • The earthquake's location was 60 miles east-northeast of Los Andes, Chile.
  • The depth of the earthquake was around 75 miles (120 km).
  • There were no immediate reports of damage, injuries, or deaths.
  • No tsunami warning was issued after the quake.
  • The affected area is near the El Tigre fault line in the Andes region.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

The deal that means Prince Andrew can still afford to live in Royal Lodge

The deal that means Prince Andrew can still afford to live in Royal Lodge

Summary

Prince Andrew has a unique lease deal for his Windsor home, Royal Lodge, which allows him to live there with minimal annual rent payments. The lease agreement included significant up-front payments made by Prince Andrew for renovations and to cover future rent, totaling over £8 million. This arrangement means he currently does not have to make monthly rent payments, even though he no longer receives financial support from the royal family.

Key Facts

  • Prince Andrew has a lease agreement for Royal Lodge in Windsor with annual rent described as a "peppercorn," meaning a very small amount.
  • The 75-year lease was agreed upon in 2003 and includes up-front payments for renovations and future rent.
  • Prince Andrew paid more than £8 million in total for these future rent and renovation costs.
  • The up-front payment covered approximately 33 years of rent, allowing for cost-free living after 2036.
  • Buckingham Palace previously wanted Prince Andrew to move out due to the property's grandeur.
  • The funds for the lease arrangement came at a time when Prince Andrew was less controversial.
  • The Crown Estate, the property's owner, finds having a royal resident beneficial due to security concerns.
  • Prince Andrew has to maintain the property's exterior to a certain condition as part of the lease.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Israel takes steps to shut down international aid groups in Gaza and the West Bank

Israel takes steps to shut down international aid groups in Gaza and the West Bank

Summary

Israel has taken measures to stop international aid groups from working in Gaza and the West Bank. These actions include requiring aid organizations to re-register and facing restrictions on delivering aid, despite a recent ceasefire agreement to increase aid.

Key Facts

  • Israel has banned a United Nations agency from sending aid to Gaza.
  • Israel requires international aid groups to re-register under new rules.
  • Only two out of seven border crossings between Israel and Gaza are open for aid deliveries.
  • Many requests by aid groups to send help into Gaza are being denied.
  • Israel cites security concerns as a reason for these restrictions, but has not provided evidence.
  • The re-registration process includes approval by a committee that reviews aid groups under new criteria.
  • Aid groups like the Norwegian Refugee Council are unable to send aid until re-registration is complete.
  • Israel has previously accused some aid organizations of supporting terrorism.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Trump-Putin meeting planned for Budapest on hold, U.S. official says

Trump-Putin meeting planned for Budapest on hold, U.S. official says

Summary

Category: world Plans for a meeting between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest to discuss the Ukraine conflict are currently paused, according to a U.S. official. The decision to delay follows a phone call between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are concerned about potential peace terms that could involve Ukraine losing territory.

Key Facts

  • President Trump and Russian leader Putin were supposed to meet in Budapest to discuss the Ukraine war; the meeting is now on hold.
  • The meeting delay followed a call between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
  • Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the meeting needs careful preparation.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and European leaders oppose any peace deals that involve Ukraine surrendering land.
  • European leaders plan to use frozen Russian assets to help Ukraine, despite legal concerns.
  • Pressure from the U.S. included potential supply of long-range missiles to Ukraine, which coincided with diplomatic engagements.
  • President Trump recently changed his stance, suggesting Ukraine might win back lost territory, after earlier suggesting it might need to concede land to Russia.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Russia-Ukraine Update: Europe Working on New 12-Point Peace Plan-Report

Russia-Ukraine Update: Europe Working on New 12-Point Peace Plan-Report

Summary

Several European countries are devising a 12-point plan with Ukraine to end the conflict with Russia. The plan includes terms such as security for Ukraine, the potential for EU membership, and a prisoner exchange once a ceasefire is agreed upon. President Donald Trump is expected to lead the board overseeing the implementation of this plan.

Key Facts

  • European countries and Ukraine are creating a 12-point peace plan.
  • President Trump will chair a board to implement the peace proposal.
  • The plan offers security assurances and EU membership guidance for Ukraine.
  • Russia would return deported children and participate in a prisoner exchange if a ceasefire is achieved.
  • Sanctions, including $300 billion in frozen funds, would be gradually lifted if Russia contributes to Ukraine's reconstruction.
  • The peace plan proposal is a current work-in-progress with updates expected.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Settler violence in the West Bank getting “worse and worse”

Settler violence in the West Bank getting “worse and worse”

Summary

The article talks about recent violence in the West Bank where a Palestinian woman was attacked. An independent journalist reports that settler violence in this area is increasing.

Key Facts

  • A Palestinian woman was reportedly attacked in the West Bank.
  • The West Bank is an area with ongoing conflict between Israelis and Palestinians.
  • Settler violence refers to aggressive actions by Israeli settlers towards Palestinians.
  • An independent journalist named Jasper Nathaniel reported on the incident.
  • There is a claim that such violence in the West Bank is getting worse.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Children paid 'huge price' in Covid pandemic, Johnson tells inquiry

Children paid 'huge price' in Covid pandemic, Johnson tells inquiry

Summary

Boris Johnson, the former UK Prime Minister, told an inquiry that children suffered significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic to protect others. He admitted to mistakes made by the government, particularly regarding school closures and the handling of exam results. He discussed the difficulties in making decisions due to the fast spread of the virus and highlighted disagreements with Gavin Williamson, the former education secretary.

Key Facts

  • Boris Johnson stated that children paid a "huge price" during the COVID-19 pandemic to protect others.
  • Johnson admitted the government made mistakes, particularly in managing school closures and exam results.
  • There was a lack of initial planning for school closures, with a plan formalized only on March 17, 2020.
  • Johnson highlighted disagreements with Gavin Williamson, who criticized the decision to keep schools open in March 2020.
  • Williamson faced backlash for closing schools again in 2021 shortly after reopening them.
  • A major issue was the 2020 exam results, where an algorithm led to 40% of grades being downgraded, causing public backlash.
  • Johnson expressed that the Department for Education needed better leadership during the exam results crisis.
  • Johnson stated that while the education disruptions were disastrous, they were part of handling the larger COVID-19 crisis.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Wife and secret lover plotted to murder husband in caravan attack

Wife and secret lover plotted to murder husband in caravan attack

Summary

A woman named Ethel Mills and her ex-marine lover, Geraint Berry, were found guilty of plotting to kill her husband, Christopher Mills, in a caravan attack in Carmarthenshire, Wales. The attack occurred in September 2024, and both were found guilty of conspiracy to murder. The sentencing will take place on December 19.

Key Facts

  • Ethel Mills and her lover, Geraint Berry, planned to kill her husband, Christopher Mills.
  • Christopher Mills was attacked in a caravan in Carmarthenshire by two masked men.
  • The attack happened in September 2024.
  • Ethel Mills and Geraint Berry were found guilty of conspiracy to murder.
  • A third man, Steven Thomas, was found not guilty of conspiracy but admitted to having an imitation firearm.
  • The sentencing for Mills and Berry is scheduled for December 19.
  • Text messages between Mills and Berry discussed plans to murder Christopher Mills.
  • Christopher Mills managed to fight off his attackers and called for police help during the incident.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.