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Tour de France pauses for Privitera, who died after Italy crash

Tour de France pauses for Privitera, who died after Italy crash

Summary

Before the 12th stage of the Tour de France, riders observed a minute of silence for Samuele Privitera, a 19-year-old cyclist who passed away after a crash in Italy. Privitera's accident occurred during the Tour of Valle D’Aosta, leading to the cancellation of its second stage.

Key Facts

  • Samuele Privitera, a 19-year-old cyclist, died after a crash in Italy.
  • The accident happened during the first stage of the Tour of Valle D’Aosta.
  • Race organizers are still investigating the causes of the crash.
  • Privitera was part of the Hagens Berman Jayco team.
  • Tour de France riders observed a minute of silence for Privitera.
  • The second stage of the Tour of Valle D’Aosta was canceled.
  • Participating teams have the option to continue with the third stage.
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Massive fire engulfs shopping mall in Iraq, killing more than 60

Massive fire engulfs shopping mall in Iraq, killing more than 60

Summary

A fire broke out at a newly opened shopping center in Kut, Iraq, killing more than 60 people, including children. Over 45 people were rescued, but the cause of the fire is still being investigated. Officials and residents have alleged that poor fire safety measures in the building contributed to the tragedy.

Key Facts

  • A fire occurred at the Corniche Hypermarket Mall in Kut, Iraq, shortly after its opening.
  • More than 60 people died in the fire, with most deaths due to suffocation.
  • Civil defense teams rescued over 45 people trapped inside.
  • Iraq’s Interior Ministry said that 14 bodies remain unidentified.
  • Officials and residents claim that the building lacked proper fire safety measures.
  • Legal cases have been filed against the building and shopping center owners.
  • The Iraqi Prime Minister directed an investigation to prevent future incidents.
  • Previous fires in Iraq have been linked to poor building standards.
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Who are the MAGA influencers calling for Pam Bondi’s head over Epstein?

Who are the MAGA influencers calling for Pam Bondi’s head over Epstein?

Summary

A government review confirmed that Jeffrey Epstein died by suicide in prison. Some of Donald Trump's supporters, who believe in conspiracy theories, think Epstein was murdered due to his knowledge of powerful people and criticize Attorney General Pam Bondi for not releasing what they suspect are incriminating "Epstein files." The FBI and Department of Justice found no evidence of a secret client list.

Key Facts

  • The government review found that Jeffrey Epstein died by suicide.
  • President Donald Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi are criticized by some Trump supporters over the handling of the Epstein case.
  • Conspiracy theorists allege Epstein was murdered and had sensitive information about influential people.
  • The FBI and Department of Justice memos stated there is no evidence of a secret client list.
  • Some documents related to Epstein were unsealed, but many remain confidential.
  • Trump called the Epstein conspiracy theories a "hoax" by his opponents.
  • A video from Epstein’s cell shows no entry or exit, but a time code gap fuels further conspiracy claims.
  • Pam Bondi's February statements raised conspiracy theorists’ expectations about potential revelations in the Epstein case.
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Myanmar troops recapture strategic town from rebel forces

Myanmar troops recapture strategic town from rebel forces

Summary

Myanmar's military has regained control of the town of Nawnghkio from rebel forces after nearly a year. This town is important because it is on a major highway that connects central Myanmar with China. The military's actions are part of ongoing conflicts involving various ethnic militias seeking greater independence from the central government.

Key Facts

  • Myanmar's military recaptured Nawnghkio, a key town, from rebel forces.
  • Nawnghkio is located on a major highway to China and near a military garrison town.
  • The town was under rebel control for nearly a year, specifically by the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA).
  • The military engaged in over 500 battles to retake the town, leading to the recovery of 171 rebel bodies.
  • Efforts are underway to restore administrative functions and remove land mines in Nawnghkio.
  • The TNLA moved its administration to safer locations due to military offensives.
  • The Three Brotherhood Alliance, which includes the TNLA, has been fighting for more autonomy from Myanmar's central government.
  • China has tried to mediate peace talks, as it wants stability in Myanmar, an important regional ally.
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Zelenskyy appoints Yulia Svyrydenko as new prime minister for war-weary Ukraine

Zelenskyy appoints Yulia Svyrydenko as new prime minister for war-weary Ukraine

Summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appointed Yulia Svyrydenko as the new prime minister. She replaces Denys Shmyhal, who becomes defense minister, amid efforts to strengthen Ukraine's military and economy during the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Key Facts

  • Yulia Svyrydenko has been named Ukraine's new prime minister.
  • She was previously the economy minister and has experience in negotiations with the U.S. and Western countries.
  • Denys Shmyhal, the outgoing prime minister, is now the defense minister.
  • Ukraine seeks to increase domestic weapons production.
  • President Trump has plans for European allies to buy U.S. military equipment for Ukraine.
  • Olga Stefanishyna is nominated as Ukraine's next ambassador to the United States.
  • Shmyhal's tenure as prime minister was the longest in Ukraine's history since March 2020.
  • Ties between Ukraine and the U.S. have been uneasy since Trump's return to office.
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Syrian forces leave Sweida after days of clashes with Druze minority

Syrian forces leave Sweida after days of clashes with Druze minority

Summary

The Syrian government forces moved out of the Sweida province following clashes with Druze militias. A truce, helped along by the United States, Turkey, and Arab nations, aims to stop further conflict, with Druze leaders set to maintain local security. The clashes led to Israeli airstrikes to protect the Druze community.

Key Facts

  • Syrian government forces left Sweida province after fighting with Druze militias.
  • A new ceasefire was reached with help from the US, Turkey, and Arab countries.
  • Druze groups launched revenge attacks on Sunni Bedouin communities, causing displacement.
  • Israeli airstrikes targeted Syria, defending the Druze minority.
  • The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported over 500 deaths in the clashes.
  • Israel's Prime Minister promised to protect the Druze community and keep southern Syria calm.
  • Turkey played a diplomatic role in easing the situation, alongside US and regional leaders.
  • The conflict began with kidnappings and attacks between Sunni Bedouin and Druze groups.
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How pianist Fred Hersch's daring collaborations shaped his career

How pianist Fred Hersch's daring collaborations shaped his career

Summary

Pianist Fred Hersch's career spans over 40 years, marked by collaborations with other musicians in jazz. As he nears his 70th birthday, Hersch reflects on these partnerships and their role in shaping his music. He also shares music from his recent trio album, "The Surrounding Green."

Key Facts

  • Fred Hersch is a pianist and composer with a career of over four decades.
  • He is known for working with other well-known jazz artists and newcomers.
  • His collaborations include musicians like Charlie Haden, Kurt Elling, and esperanza spalding.
  • Hersch's music is celebrated for being versatile and constantly evolving.
  • He discusses the significance of connection and trust in his music partnerships.
  • Hersch recently released a new album called "The Surrounding Green."
  • Some of his notable works are highlighted on NPR’s Jazz Night in America.
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Ukraine approves plan to boost domestic arms production to counter Russia, Zelenskyy says

Ukraine approves plan to boost domestic arms production to counter Russia, Zelenskyy says

Summary

Ukraine plans to increase its domestic arms production to cover half of its weapon needs in six months, according to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Meanwhile, the U.S. is redirecting a Swiss order for Patriot air defense systems to support Ukraine in response to heavy Russian attacks. The exact timing for when Ukraine will receive these systems and other promised foreign weapons remains unclear.

Key Facts

  • Ukraine aims to make half of its weapons domestically within six months.
  • The U.S. is diverting Swiss-ordered Patriot air defense systems to aid Ukraine.
  • Switzerland was informed that its Patriot delivery, originally due in 2027-2028, is delayed.
  • The U.S. Ambassador to NATO stated there is no clear timeframe for when Ukraine will receive extra foreign weapons.
  • NATO is coordinating with European allies to supply weapons to Ukraine.
  • Ukraine currently produces about 40% of the weapons used by its military.
  • The increased arms efforts come as Ukraine faces heavy drone and missile attacks from Russia.
  • NATO's Supreme Allied Commander said preparations for weapon transfers to Ukraine are ongoing.
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Former colonial ruler France hands over its last military bases in Senegal

Former colonial ruler France hands over its last military bases in Senegal

Summary

France has handed over its last two military bases in Senegal, ending its military presence there after 65 years. This move is part of a broader French withdrawal from former colonies in Africa, with troops leaving Senegal as well as other countries in the region. Despite the pullout, Senegal plans to continue its cooperation with France.

Key Facts

  • France handed over two military bases in Senegal: Camp Geille and an airfield at Dakar's airport.
  • The handover ceremony included French and Senegalese military officials.
  • This marks the end of France's 65-year military presence in Senegal.
  • About 350 French soldiers are leaving Senegal as part of the withdrawal process.
  • This move comes amid rising conflicts in the Sahel region of West Africa.
  • Senegal’s President demanded the withdrawal, though he maintains a desire to work with France.
  • France has been closing or reducing its military bases across its former African colonies.
  • Djibouti will be the only remaining country in Africa with a permanent French military base after these withdrawals.
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Israel hits a Gaza church, killing 3 and wounding a priest who spoke to Pope Francis

Israel hits a Gaza church, killing 3 and wounding a priest who spoke to Pope Francis

Summary

An Israeli military shell hit the only Catholic church compound in the Gaza Strip, killing three people and injuring ten others, including the parish priest. The compound was being used as a shelter during the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Israel apologized for the incident and promised an investigation.

Key Facts

  • An Israeli shell hit the Holy Family Catholic Church in Gaza, killing three people and wounding ten others.
  • The wounded included the parish priest, Rev. Gabriel Romanelli.
  • The church compound was sheltering Christians and Muslims, including children with disabilities.
  • Israel stated it was investigating the incident and expressed regret over civilian casualties.
  • Pope Leo XIV called for an immediate ceasefire in response to the attack and expressed hope for peace.
  • Caritas Jerusalem confirmed that a 60-year-old janitor and an 84-year-old woman died in the attack.
  • The Israeli Foreign Ministry issued an apology on social media for the damage to the church.
  • The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has led to multiple strikes on civilian buildings in Gaza.
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Olivia Smith: Arsenal signs Liverpool striker for world-record women’s fee

Olivia Smith: Arsenal signs Liverpool striker for world-record women’s fee

Summary

Olivia Smith, a Canadian soccer player, has joined Arsenal from Liverpool for a world record transfer fee of around $1.34 million. This makes her the first female soccer player to be transferred for more than one million pounds, highlighting the growing investment in women's soccer.

Key Facts

  • Olivia Smith is a 20-year-old soccer player from Canada.
  • Arsenal signed Smith from Liverpool for about $1.34 million.
  • This fee sets a new record for a woman soccer player's transfer fee.
  • The previous record was $1.1 million for Naomi Girma's transfer to Chelsea.
  • Olivia Smith made her international debut at the age of 15.
  • The growth in women's soccer is reflected in increasing transfer fees.
  • Other high-profile transfers include Rachael Kundananji and Naomi Girma.
  • Smith expressed her excitement about playing for Arsenal and competing for major titles.
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Israeli strike hits Gaza church, killing 3 and wounding priest who was close to Pope Francis

Israeli strike hits Gaza church, killing 3 and wounding priest who was close to Pope Francis

Summary

An Israeli shell hit the Holy Family Catholic Church in the Gaza Strip, killing three people and injuring ten others, including the parish priest. The church was sheltering hundreds of Palestinians, including children with disabilities. Israel apologized for the incident and is investigating the attack.

Key Facts

  • An Israeli shell damaged the only Catholic church in Gaza, killing three and injuring ten.
  • The church, located in the Gaza Strip, was sheltering both Christian and Muslim civilians.
  • Pope Leo XIV called for a ceasefire after the attack on the church.
  • Israel issued an apology and announced an investigation into the incident.
  • The church compound housed 600 displaced people, including disabled individuals.
  • Another separate strike on schools in Gaza killed one person and wounded 17.
  • The Israeli military has been targeting various sites in Gaza, citing Hamas activity.
  • Damage to religious sites raises concerns about civilian safety during the conflict.
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Connie Francis, pop hitmaker who sang ‘Who’s Sorry Now?’, dies at 87

Connie Francis, pop hitmaker who sang ‘Who’s Sorry Now?’, dies at 87

Summary

Connie Francis, a famous pop singer from the 1950s and 60s known for hits like "Pretty Little Baby" and "Who’s Sorry Now?", has died at age 87. Her music recently gained attention on TikTok, leading to renewed popularity. In addition to her music career, her life included major personal challenges and a publicized legal case.

Key Facts

  • Connie Francis was a well-known singer in the late 1950s and early 1960s.
  • She had popular songs such as “Who’s Sorry Now?” and “Pretty Little Baby.”
  • Francis passed away at the age of 87, announced by her publicist, Ron Roberts.
  • She recently gained attention on TikTok, increasing interest in her music.
  • Her 1962 song “Pretty Little Baby” became popular online with celebrities like Kim Kardashian mentioning it.
  • She was successful before the Beatles era and had several Top 20 hits.
  • Her personal life involved significant challenges, including an attack in her hotel room in 1974.
  • She sued the hotel for lack of security and received a settlement of $1,475,000.
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What to know about the dismissal of the Epstein files by Trump’s Justice Department

What to know about the dismissal of the Epstein files by Trump’s Justice Department

Summary

The U.S. Justice Department decided not to release more documents about Jeffrey Epstein, causing some of former President Donald Trump's supporters to be upset. Trump and others had previously promised to release documents related to Epstein, leading to conspiracy theories. Now, some conservative figures encourage moving on from the issue, even though questions remain about a possible "client list."

Key Facts

  • The Justice Department issued a memo stating they won't release more documents about Jeffrey Epstein.
  • Donald Trump and his administration had previously suggested they would release all Epstein-related documents.
  • Some Trump supporters, including Tucker Carlson and Charlie Kirk, initially criticized this decision.
  • Trump advised his supporters to stop focusing on Epstein, calling it a waste of time.
  • There is no confirmed evidence of a "client list" linked to Epstein's illegal activities.
  • Epstein was arrested for sex trafficking in 2019 during Trump's presidency.
  • Trump and Epstein knew each other, attending social events together in the 1990s, but had a falling out.
  • Epstein's lenient treatment by the justice system came under scrutiny after a detailed investigation by the Miami Herald.
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A COVID-era Western, a slasher sequel and a 50-year-old classic to watch this week

A COVID-era Western, a slasher sequel and a 50-year-old classic to watch this week

Summary

This week, movie theaters are showing a mix of films including a satirical Western set during the COVID era, a sequel to a classic slasher film, and a re-release of the 50-year-old film "One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest." The Western, "Eddington," involves a small-town sheriff and a tech-savvy mayor clashing over community issues, while the slasher sequel revisits characters from the original "I Know What You Did Last Summer."

Key Facts

  • "Eddington" is a COVID-era Western set in a fictional New Mexico town.
  • The story features a conflict between a liberal mayor and a conservative sheriff.
  • The film explores themes of community division and differing realities.
  • A new film in the "I Know What You Did Last Summer" series is now in theaters.
  • The slasher film includes original characters and a new group of young people.
  • "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" has been re-released for its 50th anniversary.
  • The re-release is part of a trend of bringing classic films back to theaters.
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Why Manny Pacquiao is boxing again for world title against Mario Barrios

Why Manny Pacquiao is boxing again for world title against Mario Barrios

Summary

Manny Pacquiao, 46, is returning to boxing after his last fight four years ago ended in a loss. He will face Mario Barrios, the current WBC welterweight champion, in Las Vegas on July 19. Pacquiao wants to continue his boxing career and improve his legacy, not just fight for money.

Key Facts

  • Manny Pacquiao is returning to boxing at age 46 after losing his last fight four years ago.
  • He will fight against Mario Barrios, who is 16 years younger and the current WBC welterweight champion.
  • The fight will take place on Saturday, July 19, at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
  • Pacquiao's last professional win was against Keith Thurman six years ago.
  • Pacquiao is motivated by a love for boxing and aims to preserve his competitive legacy.
  • He is the only boxer to have won world titles in eight different weight divisions.
  • Pacquiao was recently inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in June 2025.
  • Medical checks have been done for both fighters before the upcoming match.
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A Filipino priest’s fight for justice for victims of Duterte’s drug war

A Filipino priest’s fight for justice for victims of Duterte’s drug war

Summary

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested and sent to The Hague to face charges of crimes against humanity related to his anti-drug campaign. Catholic priest Flaviano Villanueva collected evidence of alleged unlawful killings during the campaign and helped protect a witness.

Key Facts

  • The "war on drugs" led by former President Rodrigo Duterte resulted in thousands of deaths.
  • Catholic priest Flaviano Villanueva worked on gathering evidence of alleged extrajudicial killings, which are killings outside the legal system.
  • Villanueva also helped exhume bodies for forensic examinations, which involves digging up bodies to examine them scientifically.
  • He protected a witness who claimed to work as a contract killer under Duterte's orders.
  • In March 2025, Duterte was arrested and sent to The Hague, a city in the Netherlands where the International Criminal Court is located.
  • Duterte faces charges of crimes against humanity, which are serious crimes that affect large groups of people.
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Russia, Ukraine exchange more bodies of war dead, Kremlin says

Russia, Ukraine exchange more bodies of war dead, Kremlin says

Summary

Russia and Ukraine have exchanged the remains of soldiers who died in the ongoing war as part of agreements from peace talks in Turkey. Russia handed over 1,000 bodies of Ukrainian soldiers, while Ukraine returned the bodies of 19 Russian soldiers. Russia plans to eventually return 3,000 Ukrainian soldiers' remains.

Key Facts

  • Russia and Ukraine held peace talks in Turkey, leading to an agreement to exchange bodies of fallen soldiers.
  • On a recent exchange, Russia returned 1,000 Ukrainian soldiers to Ukraine.
  • Ukraine returned 19 Russian soldiers' remains to Russia.
  • Russia aims to return a total of 3,000 bodies of Ukrainian soldiers.
  • Additional agreements from the talks include exchanging wounded soldiers and captives under 25 years old.
  • Future negotiations between Russia and Ukraine remain stalled due to unmet demands.
  • Separate from the exchanges, over 100 children have been reunited with families as part of a Qatar-led effort.
  • Russia faces allegations of illegally deporting Ukrainian children during the war.
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2026 FIFA World Cup: Qatar, Saudi Arabia AFC qualifiers revealed

2026 FIFA World Cup: Qatar, Saudi Arabia AFC qualifiers revealed

Summary

The draw for the fourth round of the Asian Football Confederation qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup decided the groups for the last six Asian teams still aiming to qualify for the tournament. Saudi Arabia and Qatar are hosting the fourth round matches for their respective groups. Each group's winner will secure a direct spot in the World Cup, while the team finishing second will enter playoffs for one remaining chance at the tournament.

Key Facts

  • The draw took place at the AFC headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
  • Saudi Arabia and Qatar will host the fourth round matches in two separate groups.
  • Group A includes Qatar, United Arab Emirates, and Oman.
  • Group B includes Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Indonesia.
  • Fourth round matches start on October 8, 2023.
  • The top team from each group will directly qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
  • Teams finishing second in their group will compete in a playoff, with the winner going to intercontinental playoffs.
  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
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Ariana Grande says she's not abandoning music for film

Ariana Grande says she's not abandoning music for film

Summary

Ariana Grande has clarified that she is not leaving music despite taking on new film roles, including her recent casting in a movie adaptation of Dr. Seuss's "Oh, The Places You'll Go!" She emphasized that she plans to balance acting and music, with her album "Eternal Sunshine" released in 2024 and potential tour plans in the works.

Key Facts

  • Ariana Grande is working on a new film project based on Dr. Seuss's book "Oh, The Places You'll Go!"
  • She assures fans that acting will not stop her music career.
  • Her latest album, "Eternal Sunshine," came out in 2024.
  • Ariana last toured during the Sweetener World Tour in 2019.
  • She hinted at a possible tour next year.
  • Ariana also runs a make-up business alongside her music and acting.
  • She is focusing on balancing her various projects in a way that feels right to her.
  • Some fans are concerned about her balancing music and movies, but others are excited to see her diverse talents.
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