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Soldier kills four in gun rampage in Russian-occupied Crimea

Soldier kills four in gun rampage in Russian-occupied Crimea

August 04, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

A soldier in Russian-controlled Crimea killed four people in a shooting spree, including one soldier and three civilians. The attacker has been caught, and officials are investigating the reasons behind the attack.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened in the village of Khmelnytske, Crimea, which is controlled by Russia since 2014.
  • The attacker first shot two fellow soldiers, killing one and injuring another.
  • He then killed three civilians: two men (ages 71 and 59) and one woman (age 64).
  • Three more people were injured during the attack.
  • The attacker has been detained, but his identity and military branch have not been disclosed.
  • Officials are investigating the motive and warned against spreading unverified rumors.
  • Russia’s control over Crimea is widely regarded internationally as an occupation of Ukrainian land.
  • Crimea has a significant Russian military presence and has been a focus of drone and missile attacks by Ukraine.
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Guatemala evacuates villages due to an eruption of the Fuego volcano

Guatemala evacuates villages due to an eruption of the Fuego volcano

August 04, 2026 • AP News

Summary

The Fuego volcano in southern Guatemala erupted on August 4, 2026, causing authorities to evacuate two nearby villages. Large lava fountains and fast-moving flows of ash and hot rock forced the closure of a major highway and suspension of classes in affected towns.

Key Facts

  • The eruption started on Monday morning and became stronger during the day.
  • Evacuations were ordered for El Porvenir and Las Lajitas, about 50 families or 250 people.
  • A lava fountain between 650 and 1,000 feet high appeared over the volcano’s crater.
  • Authorities raised an orange alert and warned ash could spread to nearby towns.
  • National Route 14, a major road near the volcano, was closed.
  • The Education Ministry suspended classes in towns close to the volcano.
  • Fuego is one of Guatemala’s most active volcanoes, with a deadly eruption in June 2018 killing hundreds and destroying a village.
  • Preventive evacuations were also done after an eruption in June 2025.
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AP News
Moment pilot caught with 70,000 ecstasy pills at Indonesian airport

Moment pilot caught with 70,000 ecstasy pills at Indonesian airport

August 04, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

A pilot was caught at Jakarta airport in Indonesia trying to smuggle 70,000 ecstasy pills hidden in his suitcase. The man said he was paid about £9,000 to carry the drugs, and authorities said he was under the influence when arrested.

Key Facts

  • The pilot was arrested at Jakarta airport.
  • He had 70,000 ecstasy pills in his luggage.
  • The drugs weighed around 26 kilograms (about four stone).
  • The pilot is Malaysian.
  • He was reportedly under the influence of drugs during the arrest.
  • He said he was paid £9,000 to smuggle the pills.
  • Airport officers found and removed several bags filled with the drugs.
  • CCTV footage showed the moment the pilot was caught.
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What will happen when a SpaceX rocket collides with the Moon?

What will happen when a SpaceX rocket collides with the Moon?

August 04, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

A piece of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket is expected to crash into the Moon on August 5. The collision will create a new crater and produce a large plume of dust, which scientists plan to observe for research.

Key Facts

  • The object hitting the Moon is the upper stage of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from a January 2025 mission.
  • The rocket part is about the size of a five-story building and weighs at least 4,000 kg on Earth.
  • It will strike near the Einstein Crater on the side of the Moon visible from Earth.
  • The impact is predicted for 02:35 EDT (06:35 GMT) on August 5.
  • The collision speed is about 2.43 kilometers per second (around 5,400 mph).
  • The event will send up a dust plume possibly 50 km high due to the Moon's low gravity and lack of atmosphere.
  • No danger to Earth is expected from this impact.
  • Scientists and astronomers plan to observe the event with telescopes and spacecraft to learn about impact effects on the Moon.
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How Israel reduced Iran’s historic Rafi-Nia synagogue to rubble (1/2)

How Israel reduced Iran’s historic Rafi-Nia synagogue to rubble (1/2)

August 04, 2026 • France24

Summary

On April 7, 2026, an Israeli air strike destroyed the Rafi-Nia synagogue and nearby buildings in Tehran, Iran. The synagogue was an important religious and community center for one of the Middle East’s largest Jewish communities outside Israel. Efforts were made to recover holy books and ancient Torah scrolls from the rubble.

Key Facts

  • The Rafi-Nia synagogue was hit by three Israeli air strikes early in the morning on April 7, 2026.
  • It was located near Tehran’s historic center and served as a key place for worship and community activities.
  • The synagogue was established in 1958 from an old house by Abdul Rahman Rafi-Nia for the Jewish community.
  • No people were inside the synagogue when it was struck, so there were no direct casualties inside.
  • Pages from holy books were scattered in the streets after the strike.
  • Volunteers and security forces, including the Red Crescent and Revolutionary Guards, cleared rubble from the site.
  • There was urgent effort to salvage ancient Torah scrolls by removing rubble carefully by hand.
  • The site also included residential buildings that were damaged by the strike.
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France24
Ukraine strikes inside Russia as Moscow accused of increasingly brutal attacks

Ukraine strikes inside Russia as Moscow accused of increasingly brutal attacks

August 04, 2026 • France24

Summary

On August 4, Ukraine struck inside Russia near the town of Gelendzhik, killing seven people in a drone attack. This occurred as Russia’s missile attacks on Ukraine have caused civilian deaths, including children, leading to accusations of increasing brutality by Moscow.

Key Facts

  • Ukraine conducted a drone strike near Gelendzhik in Russia, hitting a busy beach area.
  • Seven people were killed in the Russian drone attack, according to local officials.
  • Russia has launched ballistic missile attacks against Ukraine, killing civilians.
  • A funeral took place on August 4 for several Ukrainians, including three children, killed in a Russian missile strike.
  • Denmark’s ambassador to the United Nations said Russian attacks have grown more brutal.
  • Both sides accuse each other of escalating violence in the ongoing conflict.
  • The situation reflects the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia.
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France24
UK plastic ‘waste colonialism’ found to be polluting Turkey’s farming heartland

UK plastic ‘waste colonialism’ found to be polluting Turkey’s farming heartland

August 04, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A waterway near a major plastic recycling center in Adana, Turkey, is highly polluted with microplastics from plastic waste sent by British companies. This pollution affects farmland irrigation and raises concerns about the environmental and health impact of the UK exporting plastic waste to countries with weaker regulations.

Key Facts

  • British companies exported 675,000 tonnes of plastic waste in 2025, the highest amount in eight years, with 139,000 tonnes sent to Turkey.
  • The polluted waterway in Adana flows into agricultural fields and larger irrigation canals on the fertile Çukurova plain.
  • Samples showed microplastic pollution levels ten times higher downstream from the recycling zone compared to upstream.
  • The UK government has pledged to reduce plastic pollution but has not banned plastic waste exports.
  • About 13% of UK plastic waste to Turkey went to eight recycling facilities in Adana from 2021 to 2024.
  • Environmental groups say the UK’s plastic exports cause pollution that harms local Turkish communities and ecosystems.
  • A Turkish scientist called for a ban on plastic imports to Turkey and improved waste treatment standards.
  • The pollution eventually impacts the Mediterranean Sea, worsening marine plastic pollution.
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Guardian World Guardian Business
Exclusive: College students want ethical AI

Exclusive: College students want ethical AI

August 04, 2026 • Axios

Summary

A study from American University's business school shows that more college students are using AI regularly and see it as an important skill for jobs. They want clearer rules and training on how to use AI responsibly while keeping their own thinking sharp.

Key Facts

  • Use of AI among business students rose from 6.2% to 29% in three years.
  • Over 80% of college students used AI for school work in the last six months.
  • Nearly one-third use AI 11 or more times per week for academic or work tasks.
  • Employers are asking more AI-related questions in job interviews, increasing from 11.6% to 42.6%.
  • Many students worry AI may reduce independent thinking and affect academic honesty.
  • Kogod School teaches responsible AI use and has shifted from banning AI to integrating it in learning.
  • Brainstorming is the most common way students use AI, though it may limit creativity compared to generating ideas independently.
  • Other surveys confirm that most college students use AI regularly and want guidance on ethical use.
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Axios
Putin Is Losing Russia's Empire on Trump's Watch | Opinion

Putin Is Losing Russia's Empire on Trump's Watch | Opinion

August 04, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Ukrainian drone strikes have damaged key Russian logistics hubs and oil refineries, causing significant losses for Russia. Under President Trump’s watch, Russia has not gained new territories, unlike under previous U.S. presidents, and U.S. policy shifted to support Ukraine more freely and reduce Russia’s influence in nearby regions.

Key Facts

  • Ukrainian drones destroyed eight major Russian warehouses, greatly reducing Russia’s storage capacity and damaging goods worth billions of dollars.
  • Ukraine’s strikes also cut one-quarter of Russia’s oil refining ability, leading to fuel shortages in many Russian regions.
  • President Donald Trump is currently in office during these events.
  • Russia expanded its territory under previous U.S. presidents but has not under Trump.
  • Trump’s administration stopped trying to negotiate easy deals with Russia after realizing Moscow would not compromise.
  • The new U.S. policy allows Ukraine more freedom to direct drone attacks, which was more restricted under President Biden.
  • Trump helped broker peace talks in the South Caucasus, reducing Russia’s influence there.
  • The U.S. is gaining influence in former Soviet areas while Russia focuses on defending Ukraine.
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Newsweek
The Global Story: Who is to blame for the chaos on Spain’s border?

The Global Story: Who is to blame for the chaos on Spain’s border?

August 04, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Tens of thousands of migrants from Morocco tried to cross into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta by sea, causing a border crisis that resulted in at least 72 deaths. Different groups have blamed various causes, including immigration policies, trafficking gangs, and political actions by Morocco.

Key Facts

  • Around tens of thousands of migrants from Morocco attempted to cross into Ceuta, a Spanish territory in North Africa.
  • The border crossing attempt happened suddenly and caused chaos and a humanitarian crisis.
  • At least 72 migrants died during this event.
  • The Trump administration blamed the situation on “radical left-wing globalist policies.”
  • Some European leaders criticized Spain's immigration policies as too loose.
  • Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the blame lies with human trafficking gangs.
  • Others accused Morocco of using migrants for political advantage.
  • The BBC correspondent Sarah Rainsford reported on the crisis to explain its background and causes.
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BBC Top Stories
Russian civilians killed in Crimea as Ukraine war takes its toll on Black Sea shores

Russian civilians killed in Crimea as Ukraine war takes its toll on Black Sea shores

August 04, 2026 • France24

Summary

A Russian soldier in Crimea, a region seized by Russia, shot and killed four people, including three civilians, and wounded others before being arrested. This event happened shortly after Ukrainian drone attacks killed six civilians, including children, on the Russian Black Sea coast.

Key Facts

  • A Russian soldier in Sevastopol, Crimea, opened fire on colleagues and civilians, killing four and wounding three.
  • The attacker was arrested, but his motive is unknown.
  • The shooting occurred in Russian-annexed Crimea, a peninsula on the Black Sea.
  • The day before, six civilians, including three children, died in a Ukrainian drone strike on a Russian Black Sea resort beach.
  • Ukrainian drones frequently attack Russian targets in retaliation for Russian strikes on Ukraine.
  • Crimea and the Russian Black Sea coast are popular summer spots for Russian tourists.
  • Local officials have asked people to stay calm and avoid spreading rumors about the incidents.
  • Both sides continue to target areas near the Black Sea as part of the ongoing conflict.
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France24
Millions join Arbaeen pilgrimage in Iraq amid regional tensions and fears of US-Iran escalation

Millions join Arbaeen pilgrimage in Iraq amid regional tensions and fears of US-Iran escalation

August 04, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Millions of Shiite Muslims gathered in Karbala, Iraq, to observe the Arbaeen pilgrimage, which marks 40 days after Ashoura in remembrance of Imam Hussein. The event took place amid ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with a significant number of Iranian pilgrims attending and some reduction in pilgrims from other countries.

Key Facts

  • Arbaeen commemorates 40 days after Ashoura, honoring Imam Hussein’s death in 680 A.D. at the Battle of Karbala.
  • More than 4.88 million pilgrims entered Iraq since the start of the Islamic month of Muharram, with many more from inside Iraq.
  • Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi attended the pilgrimage, highlighting Iraq’s complex position between the U.S. and Iran.
  • Iraqi authorities oversee the pilgrimage through a command unit linked to the Armed Forces.
  • Iranian flags were widely visible along the pilgrimage routes and in Karbala, while flags from European, Arab, and other Islamic countries were fewer than usual.
  • Pilgrims said the regional war and events have reduced the number of foreign visitors from Arab and other countries.
  • Iraq has strong ties to both Washington and Tehran and seeks to avoid being pulled deeper into the U.S.-Iran conflict.
  • The pilgrimage is one of the largest annual religious gatherings in the world.
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AP News
Cars burn in reported settler attack in occupied West Bank

Cars burn in reported settler attack in occupied West Bank

August 04, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Videos show several cars on fire after a reported attack by settlers between the villages of Talfit and Jalud, south of Nablus, in the occupied West Bank. The incident was shared by Palestinian groups online.

Key Facts

  • The reported attack took place between Talfit and Jalud villages.
  • The location is south of the city of Nablus in the West Bank.
  • Multiple cars were set on fire during the incident.
  • Videos of the burning vehicles were shared by Palestinian platforms.
  • The area where this happened is under Israeli occupation.
  • The attack involved settlers, who are people living in the West Bank settlements.
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Al Jazeera
We demand accountability for the Beirut blast

We demand accountability for the Beirut blast

August 04, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

On August 4, 2020, a large explosion in Beirut killed over 200 people and injured thousands. The explosion was caused by thousands of tonnes of ammonium nitrate stored near the city center, and many believe high-level officials in Lebanon knew about the danger but failed to act. Although the domestic investigation is complete, victims’ families and international groups continue to demand a trial and accountability.

Key Facts

  • The Beirut blast happened on August 4, 2020, at 6:07 p.m.
  • At least 218 people died and 7,000 were injured in the explosion.
  • The explosion was caused by ammonium nitrate stored unsafely at the port.
  • Lebanese officials knew about the ammonium nitrate but took no action.
  • The investigation named 70 officials and security officers.
  • The Public Prosecutor must review the investigation before any trial can start, but there is no set deadline.
  • International courts and governments from several countries are also investigating and seeking justice.
  • Families of victims continue to call for accountability and a transparent trial.
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Al Jazeera
UEFA confirm legal letter served to FIFA after Infantino World Cup plan

UEFA confirm legal letter served to FIFA after Infantino World Cup plan

August 04, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

UEFA has sent a formal legal letter to FIFA after FIFA President Gianni Infantino proposed selling future World Cup profits to private investors. UEFA opposes the plan and is considering legal action while seeking an alternative candidate for FIFA president.

Key Facts

  • UEFA sent a preservation letter to FIFA, asking them to keep all related documents and information.
  • The letter warns that destroying relevant evidence could be illegal.
  • Infantino’s plan involved raising $4.2 billion by selling future World Cup profits to private investors.
  • UEFA and its 55 member federations agreed to boycott FIFA events while the plan was active.
  • The letter named 18 FIFA executives, including Infantino and other top officials.
  • UEFA is looking for a new candidate to challenge Infantino in the next FIFA presidential election set for March.
  • UEFA says Infantino has lost the confidence of world football and opposes his leadership.
  • FIFA's plan included creating a spin-off valued at $20 billion to control FIFA's commercial and tournament money until at least 2038.
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Al Jazeera
Hungary comes ‘within millimetres’ of shutting down nuclear power plant amid drought crisis – Europe live

Hungary comes ‘within millimetres’ of shutting down nuclear power plant amid drought crisis – Europe live

August 04, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Hungary almost had to shut down its Paks nuclear power plant because the Danube River’s water level dropped too low to properly cool the plant. Other countries in the region are also taking steps to manage energy and water shortages caused by a severe drought and heatwave.

Key Facts

  • Hungary's Paks nuclear plant operated at about 10% capacity due to low water levels in the Danube River.
  • Around 1:30 a.m., the plant was very close to shutting down but water levels rose slightly by morning, allowing it to keep running.
  • Hungary used energy-saving measures, including businesses adjusting work and stores turning off fridges to reduce energy use.
  • In Romania, a controlled explosion was done to divert the Danube’s flow to cool its Cernavodă nuclear plant.
  • Romania plans further actions to redirect water by sinking old barges to help the nuclear plant.
  • Temperatures in parts of Romania and surrounding areas are reaching over 40°C (104°F).
  • The drought and heat are causing energy and water challenges in southeastern Europe.
  • EU ministers planned to meet about a migration crisis in Ceuta involving mass border crossings from Morocco into Spanish territory.
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Guardian World
Scientists Reveal the Best Workouts for Different Health Risks

Scientists Reveal the Best Workouts for Different Health Risks

August 04, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A new study reviewed many clinical trials to find which types of exercise best help people with metabolic syndrome, a condition with several health risks like high blood pressure and high blood sugar. The study found no single best workout; different exercises improve different parts of the condition.

Key Facts

  • Metabolic syndrome includes health problems such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess belly fat, high triglycerides, and low good cholesterol (HDL).
  • About 1.54 billion adults worldwide had metabolic syndrome as of 2023.
  • Researchers analyzed 53 clinical trials with nearly 3,000 participants comparing many exercises like aerobic workouts, weight training, yoga, tai chi, qigong, and various HIIT workouts.
  • Combining aerobic exercise (like running or cycling) with resistance training (like weight lifting) best reduced waist size, body weight, bad cholesterol (LDL), and blood sugar.
  • Tai chi and qigong, which focus on movement, breathing, and mental focus, helped most with raising good cholesterol (HDL) and lowering top blood pressure numbers.
  • Longer high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts reduced body fat the most, while shorter HIIT sessions lowered triglycerides, total cholesterol, and lower blood pressure more effectively.
  • The study suggests exercise plans for metabolic syndrome might work better if tailored to the person's specific health issue rather than one standard workout.
  • Metabolic syndrome raises the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and other health problems.
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Newsweek
Uganda police say at least 14 people killed in collision between truck and taxi van

Uganda police say at least 14 people killed in collision between truck and taxi van

August 04, 2026 • AP News

Summary

A truck carrying sand and a passenger van used as a taxi collided in Uganda, killing at least 14 people. The crash happened on a highway in Kalungu district, and the truck driver ran away after the accident.

Key Facts

  • The accident took place Monday night in Kamunga Trading Center, Kalungu district, Uganda.
  • At least 14 passengers in the van died in the collision.
  • Four other people were injured in the crash.
  • The truck driver fled the scene and is being searched for by police.
  • Road accidents are common in Uganda and often caused by poor vehicle maintenance, speeding, and bad road conditions.
  • In July, another accident in eastern Uganda killed at least 20 children and one adult after a school bus overturned.
  • The passenger van was operating as a commuter taxi at the time of the crash.
  • Officials reported the incident through a police statement.
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AP News
Five dead in Moscow as Ukraine continues warehouse strikes

Five dead in Moscow as Ukraine continues warehouse strikes

August 04, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

At least five people died and 10 were injured in a Ukrainian drone strike on a warehouse near Moscow. Russia also reported its own attacks on Ukrainian cities, causing deaths and injuries.

Key Facts

  • A Ukrainian drone struck a warehouse close to Moscow, killing five and injuring 10.
  • The targeted warehouse is believed to be linked to Wildberries, a large Russian online retailer.
  • Wildberries facilities in St Petersburg and Tver regions were also hit overnight.
  • Russia claims the warehouses supply the Russian military; Ukraine denies this.
  • Russia's defense ministry said it intercepted and destroyed 320 drones during the attacks.
  • Russia launched strikes on Ukrainian cities including Mykolaiv, Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi, and Dnipro.
  • In Mykolaiv, one elderly woman died and seven people, including two children, were injured.
  • A food warehouse was set on fire in Dnipro due to Russian strikes.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
Charity cyclist, 82, dies a day after 3,300 mile ride across Australia

Charity cyclist, 82, dies a day after 3,300 mile ride across Australia

August 04, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Bob Montgomery, an 82-year-old cyclist, completed a 3,300-mile bike ride across Australia to raise money for a motor neurone disease (MND) charity. He died peacefully a day after finishing the ride, which he completed with his 18-year-old grandson.

Key Facts

  • Bob Montgomery cycled from Broome in Western Australia to Bowral, near Sydney.
  • The ride covered 3,300 miles (5,300 km) and took six weeks.
  • He and his grandson raised about A$105,000 (around $74,000) for an MND charity.
  • This was his sixth fundraising ride for MND NSW, a cause personal to him.
  • Montgomery lost a cousin to MND, motivating his fundraising efforts.
  • His wife, Jenny, was with him when he passed away peacefully.
  • The local community welcomed him with applause at the ride’s end.
  • MND NSW's chief executive praised Montgomery as a dedicated supporter and friend.
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