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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

Steve Wright - the 'cruel' serial killer who hated women

Steve Wright - the 'cruel' serial killer who hated women

Summary

A man named Steve Wright was found guilty of killing five women in Ipswich, England, in 2006. He recently confessed to another murder of a teenager named Victoria Hall in 1999. Wright also admitted trying to kidnap another woman.

Key Facts

  • Steve Wright killed five women in Ipswich in 2006.
  • He was sentenced to life in prison for these crimes.
  • In 2024, he confessed to the murder of Victoria Hall, a 17-year-old, in 1999.
  • Wright also admitted to attempting to kidnap a 22-year-old woman.
  • He was 67 years old when he pleaded guilty to the new charges.
  • The police found the victims' bodies around Ipswich, causing widespread fear.
  • Wright lived in the red-light district and admitted hiring sex workers.
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Has the Trump administration overplayed its spin?

Has the Trump administration overplayed its spin?

Summary

In Minneapolis, a protester was fatally shot by border control agents, leading to large demonstrations and raising questions about the Trump administration's immigration practices. Simultaneously, there are concerns over content censorship linked to newly appointed TikTok investors associated with President Trump.

Key Facts

  • A protester was shot and killed by border control agents in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
  • The incident led to mass demonstrations in the area.
  • There are questions about the force and technology used against the protesters.
  • Some TikTok users reported censorship of content critical of President Trump.
  • New TikTok investors have connections to President Trump.
  • Bangladesh is approaching significant elections amid political unrest and threats to the media.
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U.S.-Iran nuclear talks expected Friday amid military buildup

U.S.-Iran nuclear talks expected Friday amid military buildup

Summary

U.S. and Iranian officials plan to meet on Friday in Istanbul to discuss a nuclear deal. This will be their first meeting since talks ended last June, amid a buildup of U.S. military forces in the Gulf and diplomatic efforts by Turkey, Egypt, and Qatar.

Key Facts

  • U.S. White House envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are expected to meet in Istanbul.
  • The meeting would be the first since talks collapsed and a 12-day war occurred in June.
  • The U.S. military is increasing its presence in the Gulf region.
  • Diplomatic efforts by Turkey, Egypt, and Qatar led to planning this meeting.
  • Iran's stance is to discuss only nuclear issues, while the U.S. wants broader talks.
  • President Trump believes a fast agreement could prevent military conflict.
  • Witkoff has planned meetings with Israeli and other regional officials before the talks in Istanbul.
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Do you need to control your cortisol levels? Probably not, doctors say

Do you need to control your cortisol levels? Probably not, doctors say

Summary

Doctors say that most people do not need to worry about managing their cortisol levels through supplements or advice from influencers. Cortisol is an important hormone for handling stress and is usually well-regulated by the body. If there are concerns about cortisol levels, professional medical advice is recommended.

Key Facts

  • Cortisol is known as the stress hormone and is produced by the adrenal glands.
  • It helps manage several body functions, including inflammation, the immune system, and blood pressure.
  • Cortisol naturally changes throughout the day and rises during stress or illness.
  • Disorders like adrenal insufficiency (low cortisol) and Cushing's syndrome (high cortisol) are rare.
  • Symptoms of cortisol disorders can overlap with other conditions, making diagnosis complex and requiring professional guidance.
  • Cortisol levels can be tested through saliva, blood, or urine but should be interpreted by a doctor.
  • Over-the-counter supplements claiming to affect cortisol levels are not proven to be effective.
  • Medical treatments for cortisol disorders need to be carefully managed to avoid other health problems.
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Getting resources for Sudan is a ‘race against time’

Getting resources for Sudan is a ‘race against time’

Summary

Fighting in Sudan between the army and a group called the RSF has caused many people to leave their homes. A UN official visited a camp and said there are not enough resources to help everyone.

Key Facts

  • Fighting began between the Sudanese army and the RSF in 2023.
  • Over nine million people have been displaced inside Sudan because of the conflict.
  • The UN Humanitarian Coordinator, Denise Brown, visited a camp in Sudan.
  • Denise Brown warned that resources are scarce.
  • The conflict has increased danger for civilians living in Sudan.
  • The report was published on February 2, 2026.
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How Balochistan attacks threaten Pakistan’s promises to China, Trump

How Balochistan attacks threaten Pakistan’s promises to China, Trump

Summary

Recent attacks in Balochistan have raised concerns about Pakistan's promises to China and the U.S. The Baloch Liberation Army claims responsibility for these attacks, which reflect ongoing separatist tensions in the region. Pakistan accuses India of involvement, but India denies these claims.

Key Facts

  • Pakistan's army chief showcased mineral samples to President Trump as part of an investment offer.
  • Balochistan, where these minerals are found, is experiencing separatist violence.
  • Recent attacks in Balochistan resulted in 31 civilian and 17 security personnel deaths; 145 attackers were killed.
  • The Baloch Liberation Army, a separatist group, claimed responsibility for the attacks.
  • Balochistan is significant for both Chinese and potential U.S. investments.
  • Pakistan accuses India of orchestrating the attacks, but India denies it and suggests Pakistan address its internal issues.
  • Balochistan is Pakistan's poorest province despite its rich natural resources.
  • The region has been involved in a separatist movement since its annexation by Pakistan in 1948.
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Israel’s Rafah border scheme risks Gaza patients’ lives

Israel’s Rafah border scheme risks Gaza patients’ lives

Summary

Israel has reopened the Rafah border crossing from Gaza but is allowing only 50 patients to pass through each day. This limitation means that it could take over a year to evacuate the 20,000 people currently waiting for treatment.

Key Facts

  • Israel reopened the Rafah border crossing in Gaza for patient evacuation.
  • Only 50 patients are allowed to cross the border each day.
  • Dr. James Smith warns that many sick and injured people will go untreated.
  • There are 20,000 people waiting to be evacuated for medical treatment.
  • At the current rate, it could take over a year for all patients to be evacuated.
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French parliament clears way for Macron's military spending boost in 2026 budget

French parliament clears way for Macron's military spending boost in 2026 budget

Summary

France's parliament has passed the 2026 budget to increase military spending, following promises by President Emmanuel Macron to address threats related to Russia and the Middle East. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu utilized special powers to approve the budget, avoiding a government shutdown and ensuring military enhancements. The budget aims to reduce the deficit while including tax increases for big companies and suspending unpopular pension changes.

Key Facts

  • France's 2026 budget increase is aimed at boosting military spending.
  • The budget passed using a special constitutional power, bypassing a parliamentary vote.
  • The budget includes a €6.7 billion increase for military spending in 2026.
  • New military equipment includes a nuclear submarine and surface-to-air missiles.
  • Macron focuses on defense and foreign policy amid ongoing parliamentary issues.
  • The government aims to lower the budget deficit to 5% of the GDP.
  • Some pension reforms were paused to avoid government collapse.
  • Businesses will face higher taxes to help balance the budget.
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Captain guilty of North Sea tanker crash death

Captain guilty of North Sea tanker crash death

Summary

A cargo ship captain named Vladimir Motin was found guilty of gross negligence manslaughter after a collision in the North Sea. The crash with a US tanker led to the disappearance and presumed death of crew member Mark Angelo Pernia.

Key Facts

  • Vladimir Motin is the captain of a cargo ship called Solong.
  • The collision happened with a US tanker named Stena Immaculate.
  • The incident occurred off the East Yorkshire coast on 10 March 2025.
  • Mark Angelo Pernia, a crew member from Solong, went missing and is presumed dead.
  • Motin was accused of not keeping a proper lookout or using all possible methods to avoid the collision.
  • The conviction took place at the Old Bailey court in London.
  • Motin is from St Petersburg, Russia, and will be sentenced at a later date.
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Scottish government confirms it will not back prostitution offences bill

Scottish government confirms it will not back prostitution offences bill

Summary

The Scottish government has decided not to support a bill that aims to criminalize paying for sex. The bill, introduced by independent MSP Ash Regan, would create new offences related to prostitution. The government's concerns include enforcement issues and the potential risk of increased violence against sex workers.

Key Facts

  • The Scottish government will not support the Prostitution (Offences and Support) (Scotland) Bill.
  • Independent MSP Ash Regan introduced the bill.
  • The bill seeks to make paying for sex a criminal offense.
  • It also proposes repealing the current offence of soliciting by prostitutes.
  • The government is concerned about enforcing the bill and potential violence against sex workers.
  • Without government backing, the bill is unlikely to pass.
  • Some SNP MSPs might still support the bill, though the Greens oppose it.
  • Ministers plan to introduce a similar bill more carefully designed in the future if re-elected.
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Mix of hope and fear settles over Venezuela a month after U.S.-imposed government change

Mix of hope and fear settles over Venezuela a month after U.S.-imposed government change

Summary

A month after the U.S. captured former President Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela is dealing with uncertainty and mixed emotions, including fear of future unrest. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has taken steps to privatize parts of the oil industry and attempts to show she governs independently, despite U.S. influence.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. captured Nicolás Maduro on January 3, 2024.
  • Delcy Rodríguez is the acting President of Venezuela.
  • Rodríguez has signed a law to reduce state control over the oil industry.
  • The U.S. reportedly has control over Venezuela's oil funds.
  • Many Venezuelans are uncertain about the country's political future.
  • The government is adjusting its stance toward the U.S., acknowledging military limitations.
  • Opposition leaders in Venezuela are starting to speak out again.
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Starmer believes Mandelson 'should not be member of Lords'

Starmer believes Mandelson 'should not be member of Lords'

Summary

The UK Prime Minister ordered an investigation into Lord Mandelson's interactions with Jeffrey Epstein. This follows the release of emails showing Mandelson sharing government information with Epstein while he was a government minister. Though the Prime Minister believes Mandelson should be removed from the House of Lords, he lacks the power to do so.

Key Facts

  • An investigation has been launched into Lord Mandelson's contacts with Jeffrey Epstein.
  • Mandelson allegedly sent government information to Epstein via email in 2009.
  • He has taken a leave of absence from the House of Lords after serving as a US ambassador.
  • Mandelson resigned from the Labour Party after details of his friendship with Epstein became public.
  • The Prime Minister cannot remove Mandelson's title but seeks to modernize disciplinary procedures in the Lords.
  • Legislation to strip Mandelson's title would be complex and lengthy.
  • Mandelson is expected to share information if requested in front of Congress.
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Watch: Punxsutawney Phil emerges for Groundhog Day

Watch: Punxsutawney Phil emerges for Groundhog Day

Summary

People gather every February 2nd in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, to see a groundhog named Punxsutawney Phil. According to tradition, if Phil sees his shadow, winter will last six more weeks; if not, spring will come soon.

Key Facts

  • The event takes place in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.
  • This tradition started in the late 1880s.
  • Punxsutawney Phil is the groundhog involved in the event.
  • The belief is that if Phil sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter.
  • If Phil does not see his shadow, it means spring is on its way.
  • Phil's weather predictions have about a 35% accuracy rate over the past 20 years, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
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Iran’s economy falters as internet shutdown hits people, businesses hard

Iran’s economy falters as internet shutdown hits people, businesses hard

Summary

Iran experienced a major internet shutdown affecting over 90 million people for weeks. The blackout started during nationwide protests and caused significant economic damage, estimated at least $33 million per day. Authorities have partially restored internet services, but many restrictions remain.

Key Facts

  • Iran's internet blackout began on January 8 during nationwide protests.
  • The shutdown affected more than 90 million people by cutting off communications.
  • It led to losses estimated at $33 million a day for Iran’s economy.
  • The internet has been partially restored, but many areas face heavy filtering.
  • People are using costly and temporary solutions like VPNs to access the internet.
  • The Iranian government's Supreme National Security Council made the decision to cut connectivity.
  • The shutdown severely impacted businesses, leading to layoffs and lost income.
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Bangladesh court sentences ex-PM Hasina, UK lawmaker niece in graft case

Bangladesh court sentences ex-PM Hasina, UK lawmaker niece in graft case

Summary

A court in Bangladesh sentenced ex-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her niece, UK lawmaker Tulip Siddiq, for corruption involving a government land project. Hasina received a 10-year sentence, while Siddiq got four years. Hasina, in exile since 2024, was accused of illegally securing property for family members.

Key Facts

  • Sheikh Hasina, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, was sentenced to 10 years for corruption.
  • Her niece, UK lawmaker Tulip Siddiq, received a four-year prison sentence in the same case.
  • The case involves accusations of securing government land unlawfully.
  • Hasina has been living in exile in India since 2024 after being ousted in a student-led uprising.
  • She faces charges for alleged crimes against humanity during a crackdown on protests in 2024.
  • Hasina's family members, including siblings Azmina and Radwan Mujib, also received prison sentences.
  • Siddiq dismissed the allegations as politically motivated.
  • The verdict comes ahead of elections managed by an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.
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Kremlin official says U.S.-brokered Russia-Ukraine talks will resume this week

Kremlin official says U.S.-brokered Russia-Ukraine talks will resume this week

Summary

U.S.-brokered talks to address the conflict between Russia and Ukraine will resume in Abu Dhabi this week after a brief delay. These negotiations take place amid ongoing fighting and recent attacks in Ukraine. President Zelenskyy will send a delegation, but key issues remain unresolved.

Key Facts

  • U.S.-brokered talks on the Russia-Ukraine conflict will resume this week in Abu Dhabi.
  • The talks were delayed due to scheduling conflicts, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy plans to send a delegation to the meeting.
  • President Trump's administration has been involved in pushing for a resolution between the two nations.
  • A primary issue in the talks is whether Russia will retain territories occupied in Ukraine.
  • Russian attacks have continued, including a recent one that killed 12 miners.
  • Ukraine is working to prevent the use of Starlink by Russian forces, with Musk's SpaceX assisting in these efforts.
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Siddiq given second Bangladesh jail sentence as Labour criticises process

Siddiq given second Bangladesh jail sentence as Labour criticises process

Summary

Tulip Siddiq, a former UK minister and current Labour MP, has been sentenced to four years in prison by a Bangladeshi court on corruption charges. The Labour Party has criticized the process as unfair, stating that Siddiq was not given a fair chance to defend herself. Additionally, her aunt, former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and other family members received prison sentences in separate cases.

Key Facts

  • Tulip Siddiq received a four-year prison sentence in Bangladesh for corruption charges.
  • The Labour Party claims Siddiq was not given a fair legal process.
  • Siddiq has previously received a two-year sentence for similar charges.
  • Her aunt, Sheikh Hasina, the ousted Bangladeshi Prime Minister, was also sentenced in separate cases.
  • The court cases against Hasina started after her removal from power in Bangladesh.
  • Hasina fled to India in August 2024 after mass uprisings.
  • Hasina has been sentenced to death for crimes against humanity related to a crackdown on student protests.
  • Siddiq resigned as a UK Treasury minister in January 2025 due to links to her aunt.
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Dog Gets Her First‑Ever Report Card—Owner Can’t Cope With What Staff Say

Dog Gets Her First‑Ever Report Card—Owner Can’t Cope With What Staff Say

Summary

A dog owner named Trish Doller received a report card for her dog, Talaria, after leaving her at a boarding facility in Florida. The report card described Talaria as friendly and sociable, which surprised Doller as she felt the dog behaved differently at home. The updates about Talaria's behavior became popular online, with people enjoying the fun observations made by the pet care staff.

Key Facts

  • The dog's name is Talaria, and she is a Border collie mix.
  • Talaria stayed at The Dog Resort in Fort Myers, Florida.
  • While away, Talaria's owner received a report card detailing the dog's behavior.
  • Talaria was described as calm, friendly, and social at the facility.
  • The report card showed that Talaria made several dog friends.
  • The humorous updates about Talaria's time at the facility gained attention on social media.
  • Doggy report cards help owners understand their pets' personalities and can improve customer satisfaction.
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Trump’s Surprise India Deal: DC Blinked, Delhi Said Yes

Trump’s Surprise India Deal: DC Blinked, Delhi Said Yes

Summary

President Donald Trump announced a trade deal with India, reducing U.S. tariffs on Indian goods to 18%. In return, India agreed to stop buying oil from Russia, aligning with Western efforts to limit Russian revenue.

Key Facts

  • President Trump announced a new trade agreement with India on February 2.
  • U.S. tariffs on Indian goods were reduced to 18%.
  • India agreed to stop purchasing oil from Russia.
  • The trade deal was seen as part of a strategy to reduce Russia's revenue amid the Ukraine conflict.
  • The agreement followed a significant trade deal between India and the European Union.
  • Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi framed the tariff reduction as positive for Indian exporters.
  • The U.S. government indicated that reducing tariffs was linked to geopolitical energy concerns.
  • The trade deal was revealed publicly by the new U.S. Ambassador to India before the official announcement.
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Billie Eilish's House Sparks Backlash After Denouncing ICE on 'Stolen Land'

Billie Eilish's House Sparks Backlash After Denouncing ICE on 'Stolen Land'

Summary

Singer Billie Eilish faced criticism for her comments about "stolen land" during the Grammy Awards. She mentioned this while accepting an award alongside her brother and wearing "ICE OUT" pins. Eilish's statements brought attention to the Tongva tribe, whose ancestral land includes the Los Angeles area where she resides.

Key Facts

  • Billie Eilish won Song of the Year at the Grammy Awards.
  • Eilish referred to "stolen land" in her acceptance speech at the Grammys.
  • Her comments received backlash on social media due to her residence on land tied to the Tongva tribe.
  • The Tongva tribe historically lived in the Los Angeles area, now heavily populated by celebrities.
  • Eilish and her brother wore "ICE OUT" pins, expressing opposition to U.S. immigration policies.
  • The San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians Gabrieleno Tongva appreciates the attention her comments bring to their history.
  • Two U.S. citizens were recently killed during federal immigration operations, sparking further debate about immigration enforcement.
  • Eilish is not the only celebrity to criticize ICE during the award ceremony; Bad Bunny also made a statement.
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