The Actual News

Neutral summaries of your favorite news sources — just the facts.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

Flames near Madrid as wildfires burn across Spain and Portugal

Flames near Madrid as wildfires burn across Spain and Portugal

Summary

Firefighters are tackling several wildfires in Spain and Portugal amid a heatwave in Europe. A significant fire is burning near Madrid, and temperatures in the region are expected to remain very high for a few days.

Key Facts

  • Wildfires are spreading in both Spain and Portugal.
  • Emergency teams are actively fighting the fires near Madrid, specifically in Tres Cantos.
  • Tres Cantos is located 23 kilometers north of Madrid.
  • The region is experiencing a heatwave with temperatures reaching up to 44 degrees Celsius.
  • The high temperatures are expected to continue until at least Wednesday.
  • The situation is part of a larger pattern of extreme heat across Europe.
Read the Original

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

The arduous system for getting aid into Gaza

The arduous system for getting aid into Gaza

Summary

Getting aid into Gaza is challenging due to restrictions on items that can be sent, such as insulin needles and sleeping bags. A charity, International Network for Aid, Relief and Assistance, faces difficulties in delivering these supplies. The situation highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the area.

Key Facts

  • Insulin needles and sleeping bags are among the items blocked from entering Gaza.
  • The charity trying to send aid is called International Network for Aid, Relief and Assistance.
  • Arwa Damon is connected with the charity and discusses the challenges of sending aid.
  • The effort to send supplies faces rejections, such as from Israel.
  • The crisis in Gaza is ongoing, with no clear end in sight.
  • The article mentions a humanitarian crisis affecting Palestinians in Gaza.
Read the Original

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

Worst bleaching on record for Western Australian coral reefs

Worst bleaching on record for Western Australian coral reefs

Summary

Coral reefs along Western Australia's coast have experienced the most severe bleaching ever recorded due to an intense marine heatwave. Warmer water temperatures from August to May caused significant damage, affecting areas that previously remained untouched. This is part of a wider global coral bleaching event linked to record high ocean temperatures.

Key Facts

  • Coral reefs on Western Australia’s coast suffered the worst bleaching on record.
  • The bleaching occurred after a "longest, largest and most intense" marine heatwave.
  • Higher water temperatures led to coral losing algae, a process called bleaching.
  • The damage covers 1,500 km (932 miles) and includes previously unaffected areas.
  • The bleaching is part of a global event caused by high ocean temperatures.
  • Eight weeks of heat stress can kill coral, and many WA reefs lost 15-30% of their life.
  • Areas once thought safe from bleaching, like the Ningaloo Reef, were affected.
  • The report calls climate change from carbon emissions the greatest threat to reefs.
Read the Original

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

'This may come as a shock but I love London' - what we learnt from Nicola Sturgeon's memoir

'This may come as a shock but I love London' - what we learnt from Nicola Sturgeon's memoir

Summary

Nicola Sturgeon's memoir, "Frankly," reveals insights into her time as Scotland's first minister, including her challenges with transgender legislation and her relationship with Alex Salmond. She discusses her regrets about handling gender self-identification laws and the controversy involving Isla Bryson. The book also covers her views on criticism from author JK Rowling and her strained relationship with Salmond.

Key Facts

  • Nicola Sturgeon's memoir "Frankly" discusses her time as Scotland's first minister.
  • She writes about the difficulties and personal impact of handling issues around transgender legislation.
  • Sturgeon admits she regrets not pausing the process to build more agreement on gender self-identification laws.
  • There was controversy over Isla Bryson, a convicted rapist who identified as female and was initially sent to a women's prison.
  • Sturgeon criticizes author JK Rowling for making comments that increased personal attacks against her.
  • The memoir discusses her estrangement from Alex Salmond, who was cleared of sexual offenses but faced damaging revelations in court.
  • Sturgeon claims there was no motive for women to falsely accuse Salmond, countering his conspiracy claims.
Read the Original

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

Zelenskyy says Putin readying for ‘new offensive’ in Ukraine, not ceasefire

Zelenskyy says Putin readying for ‘new offensive’ in Ukraine, not ceasefire

Summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin is preparing for new attacks in Ukraine, rather than a ceasefire. This announcement comes as Putin is set to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump for peace talks. Zelenskyy emphasized that Russia appears focused on continuing military operations, not seeking peace.

Key Facts

  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy claims Russian President Putin is planning new military offensives in Ukraine.
  • Putin is scheduled to meet U.S. President Trump in Alaska for peace talks.
  • Ukrainian intelligence suggests Russia is not preparing for a ceasefire.
  • Zelenskyy said Russia wants victories rather than peace and intends to present its actions as such.
  • Trump mentioned the possibility of land concessions in Ukraine, which Ukraine has rejected.
  • Zelenskyy and other leaders insist peace terms must include Ukraine's input and be fair.
  • The Institute for the Study of War reports that Russia is not signaling an end to the conflict in its public communications.
  • Russia is reportedly moving military units in the Zaporizhia region to prepare for further attacks.
Read the Original

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

Nepal offers free climbs to 97 peaks as tourism to Everest surges

Nepal offers free climbs to 97 peaks as tourism to Everest surges

Summary

Nepal plans to allow free climbs on 97 peaks for two years to attract more tourists to less visited areas. This effort comes as fees to climb Mount Everest increase to $15,000 during peak season. Nepal's government expects this will boost tourism in remote regions, though challenges like infrastructure remain.

Key Facts

  • Nepal will waive the climbing fees for 97 peaks for the next two years.
  • The permit fee for Mount Everest will increase to $15,000 starting September.
  • Most revenue from climbing fees in Nepal comes from Everest.
  • The 97 peaks are located in the Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces.
  • These regions are among the poorest and least developed in Nepal.
  • Only 68 climbers visited these remote peaks in the last two years.
  • In comparison, 421 permits were issued for Everest in 2024 alone.
  • Nepal's Supreme Court has ordered limits on the number of climbing permits for Everest and other peaks.
Read the Original

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

From us

No ads. Just the news.

It's free for everyone. If it's useful, support us at a price that feels right.

Support us
Watch: Cars submerged in flood waters after historic rain hits Wisconsin

Watch: Cars submerged in flood waters after historic rain hits Wisconsin

Summary

Heavy rain in Wisconsin caused major flooding over the weekend. This led to submerged cars, power outages, and the cancellation of the last day of the state fair. Milwaukee was one of the hardest-hit areas, receiving over 10 inches of rain.

Key Facts

  • Historic rain led to cars being underwater in Wisconsin.
  • The state fair's final day got cancelled due to the weather.
  • Milwaukee experienced over 10 inches of rainfall in some locations.
  • Power outages occurred because of the rain.
  • The National Weather Service issued a flood warning for Wisconsin and other states in the Midwest.
Read the Original

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

China and the U.S. clash at the U.N. over the Panama Canal

China and the U.S. clash at the U.N. over the Panama Canal

Summary

The United States and China argued at the United Nations over China's influence on the Panama Canal. The U.S. expressed concern that China's involvement could threaten global trade and security, while China defended Panama's management of the canal. This discussion took place during a meeting about challenges to maritime security.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. and China had a disagreement at the U.N. about China's role with the Panama Canal.
  • The U.S. worries that China's control over parts of the canal might harm global trade and security.
  • China's ambassador stated that Panama effectively manages the canal and that China respects its neutrality.
  • The Panama Canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and is crucial for global shipping.
  • Control of the canal was passed from the U.S. to Panama in 1999, as per a 1977 treaty.
  • The U.S. has shown interest in having Chinese-held port operations at the canal sold to a U.S. company.
  • Panama has rejected any external control of the canal.
  • The U.S. and Panama have agreed to boost security cooperation, which sparked protests in Panama.
Read the Original

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

Colombian senator and presidential hopeful dies 2 months after shooting

Colombian senator and presidential hopeful dies 2 months after shooting

Summary

Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe died two months after being shot at a political rally. He was a presidential hopeful and a prominent critic of Colombia's current government. The authorities are investigating the attack, and several people have been detained, though the mastermind behind the shooting remains unknown.

Key Facts

  • Miguel Uribe was a Colombian senator and presidential candidate.
  • He was shot at a political rally in June and died after two months in the hospital.
  • Uribe was shot three times, including twice in the head.
  • A teenage suspect was arrested at the scene, and others have been detained.
  • The motive for the attack is still unclear.
  • Uribe's mother, Diana Turbay, also died in violence related to drug trafficking.
  • Uribe was a member of the conservative Democratic Center party.
  • His death has drawn reactions from Colombian and international leaders.
Read the Original

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

Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 1,265

Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 1,265

Summary

Two ambulance workers and a driver were attacked by a Ukrainian drone in the Russian-occupied Donetsk region. Russia carried out multiple attacks on Ukraine, while diplomatic talks between world leaders, including discussions on further sanctions against Russia, are ongoing. The EU is focusing on more sanctions and military aid to support Ukraine.

Key Facts

  • Two ambulance workers died in a Ukrainian drone attack in the Donetsk region; the driver was badly injured.
  • Russian forces attacked Ukraine’s Kherson region, killing four and injuring seven.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy reported over 1,000 aerial bombs and 1,400 attack drones used by Russia in one week.
  • Russia occupied the village of Zatyshok in Ukraine’s Donetsk region.
  • Moscow anticipates a meeting between Presidents Putin and Trump to help normalize relations between Russia and the US.
  • The EU plans more sanctions against Russia and more military and financial support for Ukraine.
  • A virtual meeting on Wednesday will discuss strategies to put pressure on Russia and potential peace talks.
  • The EU reported receiving 1.6 billion euros in profits from Russian assets to support Ukraine.
Read the Original

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

Hot weather to peak amid water shortage fears

Hot weather to peak amid water shortage fears

Summary

High temperatures are expected across England, with some areas reaching 34°C. A heat health alert has been issued due to potential impacts on travel and health services. England faces significant water shortages affecting agriculture and the environment.

Key Facts

  • England is expected to experience high temperatures, with some areas reaching up to 34°C.
  • Heat health alerts are active, warning of possible disruptions and increased demand on health services.
  • A national drought group reports significant water shortages in England.
  • Water shortages are affecting crops, livestock feed, river wildlife, and increasing wildfire risks.
  • A jet stream and high pressure are bringing hot air from Europe, contributing to the heat.
  • Similar heat records were set in France, with temperatures as high as 41.6°C.
  • The UK Health Security Agency issued amber and yellow heat alerts across England.
  • This heat may represent the fourth heatwave of the summer.
Read the Original

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

Tibetans in India long for identity and homeland

Tibetans in India long for identity and homeland

Summary

Thousands of Tibetans have lived in India since fleeing Tibet following a failed uprising against Chinese rule in 1959. Many Tibetans are grateful for refuge in India, but they face challenges related to identity, legal status, and a sense of statelessness. The Dalai Lama's 90th birthday celebrations highlighted these ongoing struggles.

Key Facts

  • Around 70,000 Tibetans are living in India, spread across 35 settlements.
  • In 1959, Tibetans fled to India after an uprising against Chinese rule failed.
  • Tibetans in India live on renewable registration certificates issued every five years.
  • Tibetans born in India can apply for an Indian passport, but they must give up their registration certificate.
  • The town of Dharamshala in India serves as the headquarters for the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), the Tibetan government-in-exile.
  • Tibetans in India cannot vote or own property and face difficulties traveling abroad.
  • Many Tibetans in India express a longing for their homeland and a sense of not belonging anywhere.
Read the Original

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

From us

The news is free. Support if you want.

No ads. Pay what this is worth to you — most people choose $3.99/month.

Support us
The Papers: 'Don't trust Putin' and 'Two weddings and a feud'

The Papers: 'Don't trust Putin' and 'Two weddings and a feud'

Summary

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer advised former US President Donald Trump not to trust Russian President Vladimir Putin ahead of a significant meeting about Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was reportedly not included in discussions about a potential peace deal with Russia. The US president planned to contact Zelensky following his discussions with Putin.

Key Facts

  • UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned against trusting Russian President Vladimir Putin.
  • A significant Ukraine summit was planned involving Trump and Putin.
  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was excluded from some peace discussions.
  • Talks involved the possibility of Ukraine giving up land occupied by Russia.
  • Trump indicated he would contact Zelensky after meeting Putin.
  • The talks occurred amidst ongoing global interest in Ukraine's territorial issues.
Read the Original

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

How a Red Bull can helped solve mystery of missing cyclist

How a Red Bull can helped solve mystery of missing cyclist

Summary

A police investigation into the disappearance of Tony Parsons, a cyclist missing since 2017, broke through after his girlfriend used a clever tactic involving a Red Bull can to identify the location of his grave. Her actions led to the discovery of his body, after her boyfriend confessed to killing Tony. The case drew significant public attention and is now the focus of a documentary.

Key Facts

  • Tony Parsons went missing during a charity cycling trip in 2017.
  • His family lost contact with him the day after he started his ride.
  • Alexander McKellar confessed to his girlfriend, Dr. Caroline Muirhead, that he killed Tony and showed her the burial site.
  • Caroline dropped a Red Bull can at the site and informed police, leading to the discovery of Tony's body.
  • Tony's disappearance initiated a large search operation and public appeals for information.
  • Caroline's call to the police in 2020 provided crucial evidence in the case.
  • A documentary explores the investigation and the Parsons family’s quest for justice.
Read the Original

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

US puts Balochistan armed group in Pakistan on ‘foreign terrorist’ list

US puts Balochistan armed group in Pakistan on ‘foreign terrorist’ list

Summary

The United States has labeled the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), an armed group in Pakistan, as a "foreign terrorist" organization to increase pressure on them. This move makes it illegal for anyone in the U.S. to support the group, following their previous designation in 2019 as a "specially designated global terrorist." This designation reflects the U.S. administration's efforts to counter terrorism and regulate its support.

Key Facts

  • The United States has branded the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) as a "foreign terrorist" group.
  • In 2019, the BLA was already recognized as a "specially designated global terrorist" by the U.S.
  • The new label makes it illegal for U.S. residents to support the BLA in any form.
  • The BLA has claimed responsibility for various attacks, including a train siege in Pakistan.
  • Balochistan is a province in Pakistan that has experienced multiple secessionist uprisings.
  • The region is economically significant due to its natural resources and strategic port of Gwadar.
  • Tensions have risen between Pakistan and India, with Pakistan accusing India of supporting the BLA, which India denies.
  • The U.S. administration is also engaging in diplomatic and economic initiatives with Pakistan.
Read the Original

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

Iran says IAEA talks will be ‘complicated’ ahead of agency’s planned visit

Iran says IAEA talks will be ‘complicated’ ahead of agency’s planned visit

Summary

Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) are set to have "technical" and "complicated" talks during the IAEA's upcoming visit. This is the first visit since Iran reduced its cooperation with the agency after a conflict with Israel in June. The talks will focus on future interactions and cooperation between Iran and the IAEA.

Key Facts

  • Iran said the talks with the IAEA will be "technical" and "complicated."
  • The IAEA visit is the first since Iran suspended cooperation with them after a conflict with Israel in June.
  • Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson hinted at a possible meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs Abbas Araghchi during the visit.
  • The conflict with Israel included US strikes on key Iranian nuclear sites on Israel's behalf.
  • Iran's President stated they would continue the nuclear program for peaceful purposes.
  • The IAEA's visit will not include access to Iranian nuclear sites.
  • The IAEA and Iran's relations worsened after the agency claimed Iran broke non-proliferation obligations.
  • Future cooperation between Iran and the IAEA requires approval from Iran's Supreme National Security Council.
Read the Original

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

Zelensky could still attend Trump-Putin meeting, but rest of Europe is shut out

Zelensky could still attend Trump-Putin meeting, but rest of Europe is shut out

Summary

Donald Trump is set to meet with Vladimir Putin in Alaska to discuss the war in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Zelensky may attend, but other European leaders are not invited. Europe's leaders want the peace talks to involve Ukraine and reject territorial changes by force.

Key Facts

  • Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will meet in Alaska to discuss ending the war in Ukraine.
  • Ukraine's President Zelensky is not invited yet, but he may still attend the meeting.
  • Europe's leaders are excluded from the meeting and are concerned about possible territorial concessions.
  • President Zelensky opposes yielding any land to Russia, fearing it would encourage more aggression.
  • Europeans are calling for a ceasefire and have announced new sanctions against Moscow.
  • European leaders aim to be part of the peace process and protect regional security.
  • Germany's Chancellor has arranged a separate meeting with European leaders and Zelensky to discuss the situation.
  • Trump’s envoy to Ukraine stated that Europe won't be involved in the talks, a stance Europe disagrees with.
Read the Original

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

What to know about the 6 journalists killed covering Israel's war in Gaza

What to know about the 6 journalists killed covering Israel's war in Gaza

Summary

Since October 7, 2023, over 242 Palestinian journalists have died in Gaza. The conflict has seen deadly actions by the Israeli military, killing 60,000 Palestinians, and targeting journalists, including six who died recently. The deaths have sparked international condemnation, with claims that journalists are being unfairly targeted by the Israeli military.

Key Facts

  • Over 242 Palestinian journalists killed in Gaza since October 7, 2023, according to the UN.
  • The Israeli military strikes and blockage of aid are part of the ongoing conflict that has led to over 60,000 Palestinian deaths.
  • Al Jazeera reported that five of its media staff, including Anas Al-Sharif, were killed by Israeli forces.
  • Israeli forces accused Al-Sharif of leading a Hamas cell, a claim rejected by press advocates and the UN.
  • Freelance reporter Mohammad al-Khaldi was also killed in the same incident.
  • Press advocacy groups and the UN condemned the killing of journalists, calling it a breach of international law.
  • Israel has restricted international journalists from reporting in Gaza, leaving local journalists as primary sources of information.
  • Al Jazeera's Anas Al-Sharif had been threatened by Israeli forces before his death, as reported by press groups.
Read the Original

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

From us

Pay what you want

We're reader-funded instead of ad-funded. You decide what no-spin news is worth.

Support us
Sheila Jordan, a singular voice in jazz, has died

Sheila Jordan, a singular voice in jazz, has died

Summary

Sheila Jordan, a well-known jazz singer, has passed away at 96. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, she had a successful career in jazz music. Her contributions were recognized by prestigious awards, and she continued to perform and teach into her 90s.

Key Facts

  • Sheila Jordan died at 96 in her New York City apartment.
  • She was a respected jazz singer, known for her unique voice.
  • Jordan recorded one of the popular jazz albums of the 1960s called "Portrait of Sheila."
  • She was honored as a Jazz Master by the National Endowment for the Arts.
  • Jordan released at least 19 albums since 2000, including "Portrait Now."
  • Raised in a difficult environment, she found solace in singing and jazz music.
  • Jordan was friends with legendary jazz musician Charlie Parker.
  • She taught jazz vocal workshops at various institutions, including the City College of New York.
Read the Original

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

UN says families, a generation being ‘wiped out’ by Israel’s war on Gaza

UN says families, a generation being ‘wiped out’ by Israel’s war on Gaza

Summary

The United Nations reports that the ongoing conflict in Gaza, driven by Israel's military actions and blockades, has resulted in severe losses, including deaths due to starvation. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees highlights that entire families and generations are being affected, with calls for an immediate ceasefire. There have been numerous casualties, including journalists, during recent Israeli raids.

Key Facts

  • Five more Palestinians, including a child, died from malnutrition in Gaza in the past 24 hours.
  • The total number of severe hunger-related deaths in Gaza has reached 222, including 101 children.
  • The UN agency for Palestinian refugees warns that children in Gaza are dying from both starvation and bombardments.
  • At least 46 Palestinians died in recent Israeli raids across Gaza.
  • Four people were killed by Israeli forces near Deir el-Balah, central Gaza, and three civilians were killed in the Zeitoun neighborhood.
  • Israeli forces and US contractors have killed Palestinians seeking aid at distribution points.
  • Israeli military actions have killed at least 270 journalists since October 7, 2023.
  • A recent attack killed five Al Jazeera staff members, including journalist Anas al-Sharif, at a hospital in Gaza City.
Read the Original

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

Save articles & personalize your feed — Create a free account