Alberta, Canada, has been free of rats since 1950 thanks to strong measures like a special rat control zone and public efforts. Recently, the town of Bowden found a dead rat, raising concerns about rats spreading in the province despite ongoing surveillance by Alberta’s “rat patrol.”
Key Facts
Alberta has been officially rat-free since 1950.
The town of Bowden reported finding a dead rat and asked people to report any sightings.
Alberta created a 600km by 30km "rat control zone" to stop rats from entering, especially from neighboring Saskatchewan.
In the early 1950s, the province used arsenic powder to treat thousands of buildings and farms to kill rats.
The Agricultural Pests Act requires everyone to destroy any rats they find.
Rats struggle to survive in Alberta’s natural environment, which has mountains, forests, and few human structures.
Rat populations are rising in many cities worldwide due to warming temperatures, but Alberta has kept rats mostly out.
Alberta continues to get many reports each year, but most are not rats, but other animals like muskrats and mice.
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Pope Leo XIV greeted crowds in Paris by riding through the city in the "popemobile." During his visit, he spoke about the need for peace and warned about the risks of losing human values in a world dominated by advanced technology like artificial intelligence.
Key Facts
Pope Leo XIV visited Paris and rode in the "popemobile" to greet people.
He spoke publicly about peace and human dignity.
The pope warned about the potential dangers of relying too much on artificial intelligence and machines.
This visit included speeches at important places in Paris, such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and UNESCO.
The pope’s message focused on faith and human values rather than politics.
The visit received positive reactions from the people who came out to see him.
The pope also addressed issues like war, secularism, and technology during his trip.
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Ed Miliband, the UK Foreign Secretary, appeared in a viral TikTok video where he answered light questions from a content creator in New York. The video, viewed by about 1.5 million people, shows Miliband embracing his “awkward dad” image, which has become part of his online personality.
Key Facts
The video was filmed on the streets of New York during the UN General Assembly.
Miliband answered questions about his job and gave advice, showing an honest and slightly awkward style.
He mentioned running for Prime Minister of Britain but not succeeding, then continuing his political work.
The video is part of a social media trend where politicians show real, unpolished moments.
Some viewers believe the video was staged rather than a spontaneous encounter.
Miliband’s awkward image dates back to a 2014 photo of him eating a bacon roll awkwardly.
The video has helped Miliband connect with a younger audience who appreciate this authentic style.
A government source said that working with content creators often means giving up control over how videos look.
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A Canadian-Haitian author’s novel was removed from the French Goncourt prize longlist after claims it was mostly written by artificial intelligence (AI). The academy cited plagiarism and AI use concerns, while the author denies the allegations, saying they are racially motivated.
Key Facts
The novel "C’était ça ou mourir" by Thélyson Orélien was taken off the Goncourt prize list.
An anonymous online post accused the book of being largely created by AI.
AI detection software gave mixed results about the book’s authorship.
Orélien says he writes using traditional Haitian and Caribbean styles, rejecting the AI claim.
The anonymous accuser was revealed as journalist Samuel Fitoussi, who worries AI may harm reading and writing.
The Goncourt Academy cited new plagiarism accusations against Orélien.
The academy wants to protect the value of human-written literature and oppose AI-generated texts.
The book’s Canadian publisher says they cannot yet confirm or deny the allegations.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that President Donald Trump approved Ukraine’s use of Patriot missile systems. Zelensky said there are clear agreements between Ukraine and the U.S. about licensing these weapons, following their recent meeting at the United Nations.
Key Facts
President Zelensky announced that President Trump gave final approval for Ukraine to build and use Patriot missiles.
The agreements about Patriot missile licenses are described as “concrete” by Zelensky.
The announcement came shortly after their meeting during the U.N. General Assembly in New York.
Patriot missiles are advanced air defense systems used to protect against missile attacks.
The deal reflects continued military cooperation between the U.S. and Ukraine amid ongoing security challenges.
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A new rebel alliance, called the Ethiopian Peoples’ Forces Alliance for Survival, has formed to try to remove Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. This group includes fighters from several ethnic regions and aims to set up a new transitional government. Fighting has increased in northern Ethiopia, where some allied forces recently advanced into key areas.
Key Facts
The new rebel alliance includes the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), Amhara Fano National Movement, Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), and groups from Somali, Afar, and Benishangul-Gumuz regions.
The alliance wants to remove Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and create a more inclusive government transition.
Fighting has increased, especially in northern Ethiopia near the Eritrea border, where some rebel groups have support from Eritrea.
The alliance formed after months of talks, involving Eritrean and Sudanese military representatives.
The Afar rebel group leader, Ibrahim Osman Aliyu, is related to Ethiopia’s defense minister and says their fight targets the ruling Prosperity Party, not the Afar people.
Rebel forces have advanced into districts along a highway important for trade between Ethiopia and Djibouti.
Previous rebel alliances have also tried to remove Prime Minister Abiy but have faced divisions and partial peace deals.
The Ethiopian government continues to hold elections and focus on development projects despite ongoing conflicts.
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More than 55,000 people have fled violence in Sudan and crossed into Chad this year, creating a serious humanitarian crisis. The United Nations warns that without more funding, the situation will worsen, and more refugees may try to go to Europe.
Key Facts
Over 55,000 Sudanese refugees have come to Chad in 2024 due to conflict in Sudan.
The number arriving daily at Chad’s border has jumped to about 400 people, much higher than before.
Sudan has been in civil war since April 2023, caused by a fight between military leaders General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti).
More than 11 million Sudanese people are displaced; 6.4 million inside Sudan and over 3.5 million have fled to other countries.
A transit center in Chad is hosting over 4,300 refugees and is overwhelmed, lacking enough shelter, water, and sanitation.
Around 31,000 families living in Chad lack enough proper shelter; most refugees get less than half the daily water they need.
The UN has received only 20% of the $1.6 billion it needs to help, leaving a $1.28 billion funding gap.
Without more help, the UN warns more refugees may risk dangerous travel to Europe, where arrivals from Sudan increased by 245% last year.
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David Perdue, the U.S. ambassador to China, spoke positively about President Trump's recent visit to China with President Xi Jinping. Even though no big deals were made, Perdue said continuing talks between the two countries is important.
Key Facts
David Perdue is the U.S. ambassador to China.
President Trump finished a state visit with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The visit was described as lavish but did not result in major agreements.
Perdue said it's hard to measure success just by deals in U.S.-China relations.
He emphasized that the best outcome is to keep the conversation going between the two leaders.
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In a Ukrainian school near Kyiv, children of service members learn to fly and build drones in an after-school program. The lessons prepare them for future careers in technology and defense amid the ongoing war with Russia, where drones play a major role on the battlefield.
Key Facts
The school was damaged in a recent Russian drone attack, with repairs costing around $500,000.
The nonprofit group Dignitas runs Tech Explorers, a free program teaching science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through drone flying.
Students learn to pilot first-person-view (FPV) drones, build drone frames using 3D printers, and repair drones.
Drones cause about 90% of combat casualties in Ukraine’s war but are also used for medical evacuations, logistics, and civilian tasks like farming.
Eduard, a 14-year-old student, is skilled enough to assist in teaching drone flying and has built his own drones.
The program aims to equip children with technical skills for a future shaped by the war and to develop personal interests in new industries.
Ukraine’s defense and tech industries have grown, with defense production expected to reach $55 billion in 2024 and the IT sector making up over 3% of GDP.
Schools across Ukraine have added basic medicine and pre-military training to adapt to wartime needs, while Tech Explorers focuses on fostering passion and career opportunities.
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Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he does not plan to call an early general election and that there will be no election "anytime soon." He said his priority is helping people with the cost of living and supporting businesses, rather than starting election campaigns.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham is the current Prime Minister.
He replaced Sir Keir Starmer as Labour leader and Prime Minister in July.
Recent polls show Labour’s popularity has improved under Burnham.
Some advisers have discussed the idea of an election as early as next year.
Burnham rejected the idea of an early election during BBC interviews.
The next general election must happen by August 2029 at the latest.
Burnham wants to focus on solving current economic problems instead of election politics.
Labour is expected to remain the largest party but might lose its majority in a snap election.
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Pope Leo began a three-day visit to France by warning that artificial intelligence (AI) could harm human values if people do not learn to act ethically. He emphasized that technology should serve humans and not become a tool for control or unfairness, also criticizing world leaders who misuse the law for their own benefit.
Key Facts
Pope Leo spoke against losing humanity in a world dominated by machines and AI.
He called for education in ethical decision-making to guide the use of AI and technology.
The pope stressed that technology must help people and not become an instrument of injustice or domination.
Pope Leo criticized some leaders for respecting the law only when it suits them and treating justice like a commodity.
The pope’s visit to France is the first full papal visit in 18 years and occurs as President Emmanuel Macron’s term nears its end.
He expressed concern about recent laws in France allowing assisted dying and the risks of turning science into profit-driven ventures like genetic manipulation.
Pope Leo plans to hold a large outdoor mass and call for peace amid ongoing conflicts, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
He will also meet survivors of clerical sex abuse and support compensation efforts following a report on abuse in the French Catholic Church.
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The UK Ministry of Defence found 97 million previously undisclosed documents related to an inquiry into alleged war crimes by British special forces in Afghanistan. This large discovery happened more than three years after the inquiry began and raised concerns about the handling of evidence.
Key Facts
The inquiry was set up in 2022 to investigate alleged war crimes by the SAS from 2010 to 2013 during night raids in Afghanistan.
The Ministry of Defence called the discovery of the documents a "regrettable failure" and apologized for poor communication.
The documents include thousands of possibly relevant files and photos taken during special forces operations under investigation.
The inquiry chair, Lord Justice Haddon-Cave, criticized the Ministry of Defence for informing the inquiry team in a casual way.
Forensic experts are examining photos to check if SAS accounts match the physical evidence seen.
The inquiry follows BBC reports exposing possible unlawful killings by SAS troops, including children and detainees.
The Ministry of Defence said it is working hard and spending a lot to review the documents and aims to prevent similar problems in future.
Families of victims called the late discovery "staggering" and want the full truth about their loved ones’ deaths.
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Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he will not call a general election before 2029 despite recent polls showing increased support for his Labour party. He emphasized his focus is on governing and delivering results rather than seeking early elections.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham said the next general election will be held in 2029.
There was speculation about an early election after Labour’s poll numbers improved.
Burnham stated he is focused on doing his job, not on calling an early election.
Labour’s 2024 manifesto economist, Ravinder Athwal, joined Chancellor John Healey’s team as an adviser.
Labour is preparing policy ideas for the upcoming party conference, including plans for reforming the water industry.
Polls show Labour gaining left-leaning voters, and tactical voting could help Labour gain a majority.
Reform UK’s support is declining as some voters shift back to Labour.
Burnham replaced Keir Starmer as Labour leader earlier in the summer.
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke at the United Nations, defending Israel’s attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities and criticizing political opponents, including New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Many diplomats walked out of his speech in protest, while Netanyahu praised President Trump’s support for Israel.
Key Facts
Netanyahu said attacking Iran’s nuclear sites was a difficult but necessary decision to protect lives.
Dozens of diplomats left the hall before Netanyahu’s speech began to protest his remarks.
Netanyahu called out leaders and governments he accused of spreading lies about Israel and promoting hatred against Jews.
He directly criticized NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, calling him antisemitic for comparing Israel’s actions to genocide.
Mamdani responded by accusing Netanyahu of lying and being subject to an International Criminal Court arrest warrant.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas addressed the UN by video because the U.S. denied him a visa.
Netanyahu is expected to spend less than a day in the U.S. and not meet with President Trump, highlighting tense relations.
Despite tensions, Netanyahu praised President Trump as Israel’s strongest ally against enemies.
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President Trump asked Chinese President Xi Jinping to stop helping Iran during a recent talk. The U.S. wants China to stop providing military and economic support to Iran because it makes it harder to pressure Iran during the ongoing conflict.
Key Facts
President Trump told Xi Jinping to stop any aid to Iran, including military help and intelligence.
China has been supporting Iran with weapons, technology, and economic aid, which weakens U.S. efforts to isolate Iran.
Iran has used images from Chinese satellites to track U.S. military ships in the Middle East.
The U.S. adjusted its military operations to protect Navy ships from Iranian targeting.
China said it wants peaceful talks and encouraged a nuclear deal with Iran.
U.S. envoys recently negotiated indirectly with Iranian officials in New York, with Qatar helping as a mediator.
Iran wants the U.S. to lift some restrictions and end its naval blockade before reopening talks.
The U.S. said Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz and cannot make demands about it.
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A new study from Sweden found that giving probiotics to very premature babies helped reduce the chances of severe bowel disease and death. The research looked at babies born between 28 and 31 weeks and showed fewer cases of a serious intestinal illness called necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in those who received probiotics.
Key Facts
The study was done by the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden and published in JAMA Network Open.
Probiotics are supplements that support healthy gut bacteria.
Babies given probiotics had much lower rates of severe NEC needing surgery (1 case) compared to those without probiotics (40 cases).
The study compared outcomes before and after probiotics were introduced in Sweden’s neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).
NEC is a dangerous condition where the intestine becomes inflamed and can lead to death.
No cases of probiotic-related infections were reported in the treated babies.
The study was observational, so it cannot prove probiotics directly caused the benefits.
A large ongoing trial is testing probiotics in even earlier premature babies (before 28 weeks).
Experts advise parents to discuss probiotic use with doctors since over-the-counter probiotics are not safe for premature infants.
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A 28-year-old British climber died after falling about 60 meters while coming down from Torrecerredo, one of the highest mountains in northern Spain. Rescue teams recovered his body near the mountain’s summit, and local authorities are investigating the accident.
Key Facts
The climber fell about 60 meters (200 feet) into a vertical gully on Torrecerredo mountain.
The fall happened while he was roughly 20 meters from the summit.
Torrecerredo is about 2,650 meters high and is located in the Picos de Europa mountain range, popular with climbers.
Mountain rescue teams, including specialists lowered by winch, recovered the climber’s body and belongings.
The identity of the climber has not been publicly released, but he was British.
The UK Foreign Office is in contact with Spanish authorities regarding the incident.
The climber’s body was taken to the Institute of Legal Medicine in Asturias for examination.
A 54-year-old French woman was also injured in the same mountain range and taken to hospital.
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Pope Leo XIV began his visit to France by raising concerns about the effects of technology like artificial intelligence on humanity. He spoke against nuclear weapons, urged peace through dialogue, and addressed ethical challenges in a country known for strong secular values.
Key Facts
Pope Leo XIV warned that relying too much on machines could harm what makes humans unique.
He criticized the nuclear deterrence approach, saying it only increases the arms race.
The pope’s visit to France is the first official papal state visit in 18 years.
He spoke at the Élysée Palace to President Emmanuel Macron and at UNESCO to diplomats and U.N. staff.
France has legalized abortion and allowed lethal medication for incurable illnesses, policies opposed by the French Catholic Church.
Macron sees the pope’s visit as a hopeful sign for many French people during difficult political times.
Over one million people are expected to see the pope during his four-day visit.
Pope Leo XIV wants to highlight and strengthen Europe's Christian heritage and values about human life.
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Pope Leo XIV arrived in France for a four-day visit, where he spoke before a large Mass in central Paris attended by over half a million people. President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the Pope at the airport and hosted him at the Élysée Palace, where they discussed global issues and artificial intelligence.
Key Facts
Pope Leo XIV is visiting France for four days.
Over 500,000 people are expected to attend a Mass in Paris led by the Pope.
President Emmanuel Macron greeted the Pope at Orly airport.
The Pope spoke at the Élysée Palace about geopolitical topics and AI (artificial intelligence).
The visit reflects growing interest in spirituality among the French, according to the Church.
The event attracted a large public turnout, showing significant enthusiasm.
The visit highlights the Pope’s role in addressing both religious and global issues.
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Iran has proposed a plan to reopen the strait of Hormuz within seven days and start talks on its nuclear program. This plan requires President Trump to lift sanctions, allow Iran to export oil, and ask Israel to stop attacks on Hezbollah, which are difficult demands amid tense political and military situations.
Key Facts
Iran wants to reopen the strait of Hormuz in seven days, which would help stabilize global energy markets.
The deal includes lifting U.S. sanctions on Iran’s oil and releasing frozen Iranian assets.
Iran expects President Trump to stop Israeli military actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Iran has shared the plan with China and Oman, getting their support.
The plan speeds up nuclear negotiations, cutting the wait from 60 days to 7 days.
Iranian officials doubt the U.S. will accept the conditions, citing past conflicts despite talks.
Saudi Arabia is concerned because the new shipping route is only agreed upon by Iran and Oman, not Gulf states.
Iran’s foreign minister says the conditions are based on a previous agreement Trump signed in June but now demands faster action.
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