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Tan lines are back in fashion. But can you get the look safely?

Tan lines are back in fashion. But can you get the look safely?

Summary

Tan lines have become a fashionable trend again, with some people using methods like fake tanning to achieve the look without sun exposure. However, others are sunbathing to get real tan lines, despite the risk of sunburn and its health dangers. This trend is visible on social media, where videos of both safe and risky tanning methods garner significant attention.

Key Facts

  • Tan lines are currently in fashion and are being featured on platforms like TikTok.
  • Some individuals use fake tanning products to create the appearance of tan lines without sunbathing.
  • The trend has gained over 200 million views on TikTok, showing its popularity.
  • There are people who opt to sunbathe to create real tan lines, risking sunburn and skin damage.
  • Sunburn can lead to severe skin conditions and is known to increase skin cancer risk.
  • Historical views on tanning have shifted, from being undesirable in the Victorian era to a status symbol by the 1920s.
  • Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a known risk factor for skin cancer.
  • Some people, despite knowing the risks, continue to use sunbeds or sunbathe for tanning.
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Watch: Explosion rocks Russian oil facility

Watch: Explosion rocks Russian oil facility

Summary

An explosion occurred at an oil facility in Novokuybyshevsk, Russia. Ukraine claims that its drones were used for this attack, which is part of a series of strikes on Russian military areas. The local governor confirmed that a drone hit the industrial part of the region.

Key Facts

  • An explosion took place at an oil facility in Novokuybyshevsk, Russia.
  • Ukraine claims responsibility for the attack via drones.
  • The incident is part of multiple strikes on Russian military targets over the weekend.
  • Russia's Samara region governor reported that an enemy drone struck the area.
  • No detailed information about the extent of damage or casualties was provided.
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Russia’s drone attacks on Ukraine hit record high in July

Russia’s drone attacks on Ukraine hit record high in July

Summary

In July, Russia launched a record number of drones against Ukraine, marking the highest monthly total since the start of its invasion in 2022. These drone attacks resulted in casualties, damage to civilian structures, and significant destruction across Ukraine. Despite efforts by Ukrainian forces to defend against the attacks, the scale and frequency of the drone strikes remained a major challenge throughout the month.

Key Facts

  • Russia launched over 6,000 drones against Ukraine in July 2023.
  • This number marks the highest monthly total since Russia began its full-scale invasion in 2022.
  • The drone attacks in July killed dozens of people and injured many more.
  • Civilian targets were damaged, including homes, a kindergarten, and an ambulance.
  • A July 9 attack in Western Ukraine used 741 drones and decoys and killed at least eight people.
  • Ukrainian forces shot down most of the drones on July 9, but not all.
  • Russia also launched 198 missiles on Ukraine in July, second only to June that year.
  • Russia's drone strategy includes flying drones at high altitudes and using a mix of explosive and decoy drones.
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Israeli forces kill 62 Palestinians in Gaza since dawn, medics say

Israeli forces kill 62 Palestinians in Gaza since dawn, medics say

Summary

Israeli forces have killed 62 Palestinians in Gaza, mostly aid seekers, since Saturday morning. Hospital sources report that among the deceased were Palestinians seeking help at an aid distribution site. Despite Israel's announcement of temporary pauses in military actions, humanitarian agencies report ongoing challenges in providing assistance to Gaza's residents.

Key Facts

  • Israeli forces killed 62 Palestinians in Gaza since dawn on Saturday.
  • 38 of those killed were seeking aid at Gaza Humanitarian Foundation sites.
  • Israel had announced "tactical pauses" to allow aid access, starting July 27.
  • The United Nations reported 105 deaths while seeking food on Wednesday and Thursday.
  • Since October 2023, at least 1,373 Palestinians have died trying to access aid.
  • Another 169 Palestinians, including 93 children, died from starvation or malnutrition.
  • Israel has permitted some airdrops of aid, but groups say this is insufficient.
  • Only 36 aid trucks entered Gaza on Saturday, far less than the 600 needed.
  • An Israeli attack on a Palestinian Red Crescent Society site resulted in one death and three injuries.
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'I felt an unspoken pressure to smile' - Kenyan women in the workplace

'I felt an unspoken pressure to smile' - Kenyan women in the workplace

Summary

The article discusses the challenges faced by women in the Kenyan workplace, where they often feel pressured to be agreeable and avoid being seen as difficult. This issue, termed "likeability labour," highlights a broader trend of women being underrepresented in senior positions in industries such as healthcare and financial services. A report shows that a significant drop occurs from entry-level positions to management roles in Kenya and similar patterns are seen in Nigeria and India.

Key Facts

  • Women in Kenya often face pressure to appear agreeable at work, a phenomenon called "likeability labour."
  • This pressure can prevent women from expressing their true opinions in professional settings.
  • The "broken rung" is a term that describes a significant barrier women face when trying to move from entry-level to management roles.
  • In Kenya, women make up 50% of entry-level roles but only 26% of senior leadership positions.
  • The issue of women's underrepresentation in leadership roles is also seen in Nigeria and India.
  • A UK study found that 56% of women feel pressure to be likeable at work, compared to 36% of men.
  • The need for women to use minimising language is a strategy to avoid being perceived as abrasive or assertive.
  • Sociologists link this pressure to broader societal expectations and class elements affecting how women are perceived in different environments.
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Ukraine officials held in military drone corruption probe

Ukraine officials held in military drone corruption probe

Summary

Ukrainian anti-corruption agencies have arrested a Ukrainian MP and several officials over a bribery scheme related to military drone and electronic warfare purchases. This comes after Ukraine's parliament restored the independence of its anti-corruption agencies, following public protests against an earlier bill that limited their independence. These developments are significant for Ukraine's efforts to join the European Union.

Key Facts

  • Ukrainian anti-corruption agencies found a bribery scheme in military drone procurement.
  • A Ukrainian MP and other officials were arrested for inflating contract prices by up to 30%.
  • Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies regained independence following public protests.
  • President Zelensky introduced a new bill to restore agency independence after backlash.
  • Restoring agency independence was important for EU membership aspirations.
  • Ukraine became an EU candidate country in 2022, which brings it closer to the EU.
  • The creation of anti-corruption agencies was a condition for Ukraine's EU aspirations.
  • In 2023, Nabu and Sap agencies arrested a top Ukrainian court official for bribery.
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Ridley Scott's masterful historical epic

Ridley Scott's masterful historical epic

Summary

Ridley Scott's film "Gladiator" tells the story of Maximus Decimus Meridius, a Roman general who is betrayed by the emperor's son and sold into slavery as a gladiator. The movie, first shown in 2000, contains graphic violence and is available for streaming for 24 more days.

Key Facts

  • "Gladiator" is directed by Ridley Scott.
  • The main character, Maximus Decimus Meridius, is a Roman general.
  • Maximus is betrayed by Commodus, the son of the Roman emperor.
  • After the betrayal, Maximus is enslaved and trained as a gladiator.
  • The movie was first released in 2000.
  • The film is available for streaming for the next 24 days.
  • The movie has graphic violence and some upsetting scenes.
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Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 1,256

Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 1,256

Summary

On August 3, 2025, there were multiple incidents related to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Ukraine announced several attacks on Russian facilities, while Russia reported capturing a village in Ukraine. Internationally, activities included Armenia's planned joint military exercises with the US and India's continued purchase of Russian oil.

Key Facts

  • Kyiv warned its residents to take shelter due to Russian military activity involving a MiG-31K aircraft.
  • Explosions were reported near the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine, but a nearby fire was controlled.
  • Russia claimed to have downed 338 Ukrainian drones overnight.
  • Ukraine reported striking Russian facilities and downing 45 Russian drones.
  • Armenia plans to hold joint military drills with the US from August 12 to 20.
  • Ukraine detained officials over a corruption scheme in the defense sector.
  • India reportedly continues to buy Russian oil despite potential US penalties.
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BBC launches probe into Strictly 'drug use' - report

BBC launches probe into Strictly 'drug use' - report

Summary

BBC is investigating claims of drug use involving two stars from the show "Strictly Come Dancing." External law firm Pinsent Masons is leading the investigation. The BBC has policies for handling serious allegations and has encouraged people to report any concerns.

Key Facts

  • BBC is looking into alleged drug use by two unnamed stars from "Strictly Come Dancing."
  • The Sun on Sunday reported that cocaine use by these stars was a known topic among the show's crew.
  • Law firm Pinsent Masons has been hired to conduct the investigation.
  • Allegations were formally submitted to the BBC in March by another law firm, Russells.
  • The BBC has protocols in place for handling serious allegations and encourages people to report concerns.
  • Previous controversies on the show included behavior issues with dancers and inappropriate comments by a celebrity guest.
  • The BBC has implemented new welfare measures for "Strictly" to improve conduct and support for participants.
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Jeremy Corbyn's new party needs a name and it's trickier than you might think

Jeremy Corbyn's new party needs a name and it's trickier than you might think

Summary

Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana are setting up a new political party in the UK but haven't decided on a name. They want their supporters to suggest ideas for the party's name, which they must register before they can run candidates. Experts emphasize the importance of a good name that resonates with the public and stands out.

Key Facts

  • Jeremy Corbyn is creating a new political party with Zarah Sultana.
  • Over 600,000 people have registered as supporters of this unnamed party.
  • Supporters are being asked to help choose the party's name.
  • The name must be registered with the UK's Electoral Commission.
  • The name should not copy existing party names or sound too similar.
  • Experts say a strong name helps brand recognition in politics.
  • Names should be simple and convey the party's principles.
  • There are warnings about unintended implications in name choices, referencing past naming blunders.
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Melting glaciers threaten to wipe out European villages - is the steep cost to protect them worth it?

Melting glaciers threaten to wipe out European villages - is the steep cost to protect them worth it?

Summary

Melting glaciers in Switzerland caused a landslide that destroyed the village of Blatten. Residents evacuated safely, but the event raised questions about spending large amounts of money on rebuilding or protecting villages at risk from climate change. Efforts to rebuild Blatten are underway, but it is costly and may take several years.

Key Facts

  • The village of Blatten in Switzerland was destroyed by a landslide caused by melting glaciers.
  • Residents were evacuated before the disaster, so there were no injuries.
  • Rebuilding Blatten could cost up to $1 million per resident.
  • Donations and government funds are being used to support the rebuilding effort.
  • Switzerland is mountainous, making landslides more likely as glaciers and permafrost melt.
  • Protecting against natural hazards is costly, with current spending at nearly $500 million per year.
  • Discussions are ongoing about whether it's worth spending money to protect or rebuild these areas at risk.
  • The event highlights concerns about climate change and its impact on mountain communities.
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Harry Hill says his stepfather's death made him pursue comedy career

Harry Hill says his stepfather's death made him pursue comedy career

Summary

Harry Hill, a comedian, transitioned from a career in medicine to comedy after his stepfather's death. He initially worked as a doctor but felt unsuited for it and found new success with TV shows like "Harry Hill's TV Burp."

Key Facts

  • Harry Hill started as a doctor after qualifying in 1988.
  • He switched to comedy in the early 1990s after feeling out of place in medicine.
  • Hill cited his stepfather's death as a key reason for the career change.
  • He struggled with delivering difficult news as a doctor, which contributed to his decision.
  • Hill found success with TV shows such as "Harry Hill's TV Burp" and "You've Been Framed."
  • His stepfather was involved in amateur dramatics, which influenced Hill.
  • Hill stated leaving his medical career lifted a weight off his shoulders.
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Syrian government, Kurdish-led SDF trade blame over northern Syria attack

Syrian government, Kurdish-led SDF trade blame over northern Syria attack

Summary

The Syrian Ministry of Defence and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are blaming each other for a recent rocket attack in northern Syria that injured military personnel and civilians. The Syrian government claims the attack came from the SDF, while the SDF says they were responding to artillery fire from Syrian government factions. This incident occurs as integration discussions between the SDF and Syria’s central government continue.

Key Facts

  • The Syrian Ministry of Defence accused the SDF of launching a rocket attack in northern Syria.
  • The attack injured four army personnel and three civilians near the city of Manbij.
  • The SDF claims they were responding to artillery fire from Syrian government factions.
  • The SDF and Syria's interim government reached an agreement in March to integrate the SDF into state institutions.
  • The SDF has governed a semi-autonomous region in northeastern Syria since 2015.
  • The agreement aims to bring the SDF-controlled region under Syrian central government control.
  • Discussions about the SDF merging with Syrian armed forces are ongoing without detailed terms.
  • The conflict follows the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad in December and efforts at political integration.
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The Papers: 'Britain's real immigration crisis' and 'Carry on, doctor!'

The Papers: 'Britain's real immigration crisis' and 'Carry on, doctor!'

Summary

Many UK newspapers covered stories about immigration issues, a new biography about Prince Andrew, and various legal cases. Some newspapers focused on ongoing health and drug-related investigations and reports about government actions. The main issues revolve around political developments, legal inquiries, and public health measures.

Key Facts

  • The Observer reported on "Britain's real immigration crisis" and Labour's plans for a digital ID.
  • Reform UK councillors called for less strict visa rules in the UK.
  • The Mail on Sunday covered a biography of Prince Andrew and doctors defying strike calls.
  • Ghislaine Maxwell was questioned about British people linked to Jeffrey Epstein.
  • The Sunday Times reported on seriously ill children from Gaza coming to the UK for NHS treatment.
  • The Sun investigated allegations of cocaine use by stars, with a BBC inquiry.
  • The Telegraph included an interview with Kemi Badenoch criticizing Labour and reported on a former immigration minister's public statements about terror suspects.
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Pope greeted by vast crowd at Catholic youth event

Pope greeted by vast crowd at Catholic youth event

Summary

Hundreds of thousands of young Catholics gathered in Rome to attend a vigil and Mass led by Pope Leo XIV. This event is part of a special Jubilee celebration that attracts millions to the Vatican in a designated Holy Year.

Key Facts

  • Pope Leo XIV, the first American Pope, led a vigil and Mass in Rome.
  • The event took place at the Tor Vergata field on the outskirts of Rome.
  • Hundreds of thousands of young Catholics attended the gathering.
  • Pope Leo XIV arrived by helicopter and then used an open-topped popemobile.
  • The event is part of a Jubilee celebration, occurring during a Holy Year.
  • 32 million people are expected to visit the Vatican for this pilgrimage year.
  • Young Catholics from around the world have been coming to Rome for the past week for this celebration.
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The mystery of Winston Churchill's dead platypus was unsolved, until now

The mystery of Winston Churchill's dead platypus was unsolved, until now

Summary

During World War II, Australia sent a live platypus to Winston Churchill in the UK as a diplomatic gesture. The platypus, named Winston, died during the journey, and the cause of death remained a mystery for many years. Recently, details revealed that the ship encountered a German U-boat, which might have caused the platypus's death due to shock from explosions.

Key Facts

  • In 1943, Australia sent a platypus to Winston Churchill during World War II.
  • The platypus was a diplomatic gift aimed at strengthening Australia's relationship with the UK.
  • The journey was carefully planned with a special habitat on the ship.
  • The platypus died before reaching Churchill, near the end of the trip.
  • For years, the true reason for the platypus's death was unknown.
  • It is now revealed that a German U-boat encounter might have caused the platypus's death.
  • The incident was kept secret to avoid diplomatic issues.
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Canadian wildfire smoke triggers air quality alerts in US

Canadian wildfire smoke triggers air quality alerts in US

Summary

Smoke from Canadian wildfires has led to poor air quality in parts of the United States, prompting alerts in several states. This smoke has created unhealthy air conditions, especially in the Midwest, affecting people's health and daily activities.

Key Facts

  • Wildfires in Canada are causing smoke to move into the U.S.
  • Air quality alerts are in effect in Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, eastern Nebraska, and parts of Indiana and Illinois.
  • Minneapolis has been reported to have some of the worst air pollution in the world recently.
  • The Air Quality Index (AQI) in parts of Minnesota is in the red, or unhealthy, category.
  • Smoke could spread to regions as far south as Tennessee and Missouri.
  • Poor air is especially risky for those with lung or heart issues, along with children, elderly, and pregnant women.
  • Canada has 717 active fires with some labeled as "out-of-control."
  • The high levels of pollution in Canada were reported in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and the Northwest Territories.
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Rescuers race to save Chile miners after collapse kills at least one

Rescuers race to save Chile miners after collapse kills at least one

Summary

Rescuers in Chile are working to save four miners trapped in the El Teniente copper mine after a 4.2 magnitude earthquake caused a collapse. The body of one miner has been found, but the other four miners' condition is still unknown.

Key Facts

  • An earthquake with a 4.2 magnitude hit Chile two days ago, causing a mine collapse.
  • The collapse happened at the El Teniente copper mine, owned by the state company Codelco.
  • Rescuers found the body of one miner, but have not identified it yet.
  • Four other miners remain trapped in the mine.
  • Rescuers are using heavy machinery to clear blocked tunnels and try to reach the miners.
  • El Teniente is the largest underground copper mine in the world, located in the Andes mountains near Santiago.
  • The company has informed the families of the trapped miners about the ongoing rescue efforts.
  • Rescuers aim to clear 15-20 meters of debris each day to reach the miners.
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New offence to criminalise online migrant boats ads

New offence to criminalise online migrant boats ads

Summary

The UK government plans to make it a crime to advertise illegal crossings of migrants by small boats online. This new offence is part of a larger strategy to reduce the number of migrants arriving in the UK illegally. The law seeks to target people-smuggling gangs that promote illegal immigration on social media.

Key Facts

  • The UK government wants to create a new offence under the Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration Bill.
  • This offence would criminalise online advertisements promoting illegal immigration into the UK.
  • People breaking this law could face up to five years in prison and large fines.
  • Over 25,000 migrants have arrived in the UK by small boats in 2025 so far.
  • The Home Office found that 80% of these migrants used social media to contact smugglers.
  • The National Crime Agency already works with social media companies to remove illegal posts and has taken down more than 8,000 posts in 2024.
  • The law aims to hold accountable those involved in people-smuggling abroad if they later come to the UK.
  • A deal between the UK and France involves sending some migrants back in exchange for taking others with family connections to the UK.
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Arrests after migrant hotel protests in England

Arrests after migrant hotel protests in England

Summary

Fifteen people were arrested after protests outside hotels for migrants in England, including locations in London, Newcastle, and Manchester. The protests involved both anti-migrant demonstrators and counter-protests by groups such as Stand Up To Racism. The UK government is planning changes to the asylum process to make it faster and intends to stop using hotels for housing migrants by 2029.

Key Facts

  • Fifteen people were arrested during protests in London, Newcastle, and Manchester.
  • Protests involved anti-immigration groups and counter-protesters.
  • Nine people were arrested in London for not following Public Order Act rules.
  • The UK Home Secretary wants to speed up the asylum appeals process.
  • The number of hotels housing migrants has decreased from over 400 to less than 210.
  • The government plans to stop using hotels for asylum seekers by 2029.
  • Police maintained order by setting specific areas for demonstrators in London.
  • In Manchester, about 1,500 marched with Britain First, with police maintaining peace between them and a 250-person counter-protest.
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