Neutral summaries of your favorite news sources — just the facts.
Your favorite news sources, one neutral feed — we distill their reporting into fact-first
summaries and always link to the original story. How it works
World News
Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events
Two strong earthquakes hit Venezuela on June 24, killing over 2,295 people and injuring 11,000. Many local volunteers have been helping with rescue and relief work because government help has been slow or missing in some areas.
Key Facts
The earthquakes measured 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude.
More than 2,295 people have died and 11,000 have been injured.
The United Nations warned the death toll could rise to 10,000.
Many buildings, especially in the state of La Guaira, collapsed or were heavily damaged.
Government aid arrived late or has not reached some badly hit areas.
Volunteers and neighbors have played a major role in rescue and relief efforts.
Hospitals are overwhelmed and struggling to care for the injured.
Some locals are handing out masks to protect others from dust and smells from the rubble.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A former CIA officer said during a government hearing that he believes the CIA never fully stopped its research under Project MK-Ultra. The hearing was held by a House committee task force focused on declassifying government secrets related to MK-Ultra.
Key Facts
Project MK-Ultra was a CIA program that involved research on individuals, often related to mind control and behavior modification.
A former CIA officer spoke on Tuesday during a House committee hearing about MK-Ultra.
The officer stated he does not believe the CIA ended all research connected to MK-Ultra.
The hearing was held by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform’s Task Force on Declassification of Federal Secrets.
The focus of the hearing was to gather testimony about MK-Ultra and federal secret programs.
MK-Ultra has been controversial because it involved secret experiments on people, sometimes without their knowledge.
The House panel is reviewing what parts of the program can be made public.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A man named Riad Bouchaker was found guilty of trying to kill three children and attacking others in a stabbing incident in Dublin in 2023. The attack caused serious injuries and led to riots in the city. Bouchaker will be sentenced in September.
Key Facts
Riad Bouchaker, 52 years old and an Algerian-born Irish citizen, attacked children and a childcare worker with a 12-inch kitchen knife on November 23, 2023.
The attack occurred outside a childcare center in Parnell Square, Dublin, as children were leaving.
One five-year-old girl was stabbed in the heart and suffered a brain injury, now unable to speak, using a wheelchair, and fed through a stomach tube.
Two other children, a five-year-old boy and a six-year-old girl, were also injured but less seriously.
The childcare worker, Leanne Flynn, was stabbed while protecting the children and suffered serious lung and internal injuries.
The attacker also harmed other children and a teenager who tried to stop him.
Bystanders subdued Bouchaker, causing him to be injured and hospitalized.
He denied all charges in court, claiming he did not intend to kill anyone, but the jury found him guilty on all counts.
The judge will decide Bouchaker’s punishment in September.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Ukrainian forces attacked a major Russian oil refinery in Ufa for the second time in a week, targeting key fuel production facilities far inside Russia. These strikes are part of ongoing long-range attacks that have caused fuel shortages in Russia and put pressure on the Kremlin during the war in Ukraine. Ukraine also attacked a missile parts plant in Penza, and Russia reported intercepting many Ukrainian drones over various regions.
Key Facts
Ukraine struck the Ufa oil refinery, one of Russia’s largest, located over 1,000 kilometers from Ukraine.
The Ufa refinery produces lubricants and is important to Russia’s fuel supply.
Ukraine also hit a plant producing missile parts in the Penza region, about 500 kilometers from Ukraine.
Russian officials and Penza authorities confirmed drone attacks, with some injuries and property damage.
Russia reported intercepting 179 Ukrainian drones over 16 Russian regions and nearby seas.
Ukraine’s drone and missile strikes have led to fuel rationing in some parts of Russia.
Ukrainian Defense Minister said these strikes slow the Russian army’s advances by disrupting supplies.
Sweden agreed to send fighter jets to Ukraine, supporting defense against Russian aircraft.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy visited Ireland and pushed for progress on Ukraine’s European Union membership bid.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Iran is preparing for the state funeral of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who was killed on the first day of the war involving Israel and the U.S. The country is facing questions about its future leadership and political direction amid ongoing regional tensions and internal challenges like economic problems and recent protests.
Key Facts
Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was assassinated at the start of the war with Israel and the U.S.
Iran is holding a four-day state funeral with many foreign officials attending.
Khamenei’s son, who is expected to succeed him, has not yet appeared publicly.
There is uncertainty whether Iran will continue as a theocracy or shift toward military rule.
Iran and the U.S. recently held indirect talks in Doha but ended them without agreement.
The region is exploring ways to bypass Iran’s control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Iran’s population is struggling with corruption, inflation, and the aftermath of protests that saw deaths and arrests.
The funeral is being portrayed by the regime as a display of strength despite recent difficulties.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
European lawmakers warned Albania that its talks to join the European Union could be endangered if it continues plans for a luxury resort supported by Jared Kushner, President Trump’s son-in-law. The project involves building on protected coastal areas, which has sparked large protests and concerns about environmental damage and the country’s EU membership goals.
Key Facts
European Parliament members say Albania risks losing progress on EU membership over a €1.4 billion real estate project.
The project is supported by Jared Kushner and involves building a large resort on Albania’s Sazan island and Zvërnec peninsula.
The construction areas include environmentally protected zones, raising concerns about damage to forests, dunes, and wildlife habitats.
Protests against the project, called the “flamingo revolution,” demand the resignation of Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama.
About 92% of Albanians support joining the EU, making accession a major national goal.
Prime Minister Rama aims to finish EU accession talks by 2027 but may jeopardize that deadline by continuing the resort plans.
European Parliament calls for halting construction in protected areas and removing laws that allow risky investments in these zones.
Dutch MEP Tineke Strik said the resort project threatens Albania’s compliance with EU environmental rules needed for membership talks.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
German prosecutors have charged a Ukrainian man, identified as Serhii K, for leading the attack on the Nord Stream gas pipelines under the Baltic Sea in 2022. The suspect denies involvement, and Ukraine denies any role in the explosions that damaged the pipelines carrying Russian gas to Germany.
Key Facts
The accused Ukrainian man was arrested in Italy last summer and extradited to Germany in November.
He is said to have led a team of seven people in attacking and destroying three of the four Nord Stream pipelines.
The blasts released large amounts of methane gas into the Baltic Sea and stopped the pipelines from working.
Germany and Ukraine have denied involvement in the sabotage.
A second Ukrainian suspect was arrested near Warsaw based on a German arrest warrant.
Nord Stream 1 had supplied Russian gas to Germany before Russia shut it down in 2022.
The attacks happened months after Germany canceled approval for Nord Stream 2 following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
The incident caused tension as Germany is a major military supporter of Ukraine.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Clashes between Iranian security forces and Kurdish rebel groups have increased, raising the risk of a new conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. These events challenge a recent ceasefire between Tehran and Washington and follow past threats from U.S. and Israeli officials to support Kurdish movements against Iran.
Key Facts
Two members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) were killed in an attack in Paveh, western Iran.
A new Kurdish group called Xori Hiwa (Sun of Hope) claimed responsibility for the attack.
The IRGC responded with a counterterrorism operation in West Azerbaijan province, killing six infiltrators linked to Kurdish rebels.
Kurdish group PJAK said four of its fighters died in clashes near Mahabad city.
The Kurdish population in Iran is about 10% and mainly lives in western provinces.
Kurdish groups in Iran have a long history of seeking more autonomy or independence, often through armed conflict.
Iran and Kurdish groups in neighboring Iraq have complex relations, with Iran pressuring Iraq and its Kurdish region to act against Iranian Kurdish militants.
U.S. and Israeli officials have previously threatened to support Kurdish groups as part of their strategy against Iran.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has tried several times to return to Venezuela after recent deadly earthquakes, but her efforts have caused tension with the Trump administration. U.S. officials say her actions complicated relief work and increased political conflicts in Venezuela during a critical recovery period.
Key Facts
Maria Corina Machado is a Venezuelan opposition leader who won a Nobel Peace Prize and supports President Donald Trump.
Venezuela suffered earthquakes that killed more than 1,700 people and left many homeless.
Maduro was ousted from power on January 3, 2024, after stealing the election, with U.S. help.
Machado has tried to enter Venezuela via nearby countries but was blocked in Curacao and Panama.
The Trump administration is officially neutral about Machado’s return but says her attempts cause confusion and threaten relief efforts.
Maduro’s vice president, Delcy Rodriguez, was installed as Venezuela’s leader by U.S.-backed policy, which Machado opposes.
U.S. diplomat John Barrett expressed trust in local Venezuelan authorities despite criticisms from exiles and opposition.
U.S. officials worry Machado’s actions could cause unrest while many people need humanitarian aid.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A foreign container ship ran aground in the Strait of Hormuz while using a route not approved by Iran, according to Iranian state media. This incident highlights Iran’s claim over control of the strait, a vital waterway for global oil and gas. Meanwhile, talks are ongoing in Qatar between U.S. and Iranian officials aiming to end the war between the countries and address issues including passage rights through the strait.
Key Facts
A foreign container ship ran aground in the Strait of Hormuz due to shallow waters along an unapproved route, Iranian state TV reported.
Iran claims control over shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz, which has long been considered international waters.
The strait is a key passage for about 20% of the world’s oil and natural gas during peacetime.
Since a conflict started on February 28, Iran has used control of the strait to gain leverage by disrupting global energy markets.
U.S. officials, including envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, and Iranian negotiators are meeting in Qatar to discuss ending the war and issues related to the strait.
Iran wants to control shipping routes and charge fees for passage, which the U.S. and Gulf states oppose.
Recent attacks occurred after an attempt to open a new shipping route near Oman, showing the tension in the region.
Lebanon and the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel remain major challenges in the negotiations.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The mother of a Greek politician from the ruling New Democracy party died from severe burns after an arson attack on her apartment building in Thessaloniki. The attack was one of three suspected coordinated petrol bomb incidents targeting party officials, and the investigation is now led by Greece’s Counter-Terrorism Service.
Key Facts
Vagia Nestora, 72, suffered burns covering about 80% of her body and died in hospital.
The attacks happened early Wednesday morning in Thessaloniki and involved petrol bombs and improvised devices.
Vagia Nestora’s daughter, Afroditi Nestora, a New Democracy party candidate, was also injured and remains hospitalized.
The fires caused explosions, destroyed cars, damaged motorcycles, and harmed multiple residents.
Police are investigating if the three attacks, targeting New Democracy members’ homes, were planned together.
No group has said they carried out the attacks.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis condemned the violence and promised to find and punish those responsible.
Greece’s Counter-Terrorism Service is examining CCTV footage and managing the investigation.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Two people climbed the Empire State Building on Wednesday and displayed a banner at the top before appearing to get engaged. Law enforcement experts have explained the possible legal consequences they might face for this action.
Key Facts
The incident happened at the Empire State Building, a famous landmark in New York City.
Two individuals climbed to the top of the building without permission.
They showed a banner once they reached the top.
The couple appeared to get engaged during the event.
Climbing the building without permission is illegal and can lead to charges.
Experts from law enforcement discussed the types of charges the climbers could face.
The article focuses on the legal side of the event, not just the engagement story.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Nigeria plans to ask South Africa for payment for businesses and homes left behind by Nigerians who fled due to recent protests against migrants. The Nigerian government is collecting information on abandoned property and will discuss compensation with South African officials.
Key Facts
Many Nigerians left South Africa because of protests targeting undocumented migrants.
Over 600 Nigerians have been flown back home recently; about 25,000 other African nationals also left.
Nigerian officials are documenting abandoned businesses, cars, and properties left in South Africa.
South African police arrested around 900 people mostly for immigration offenses and looting.
Some anti-migrant groups demanded foreigners leave South Africa by June 30 and held marches.
Nigerian trader Oghodero Erejor Wilson lost his clothing business in Centurion after fleeing for safety.
Nigeria says it will verify claims before formally requesting compensation from South Africa.
Nigeria and South Africa remain in diplomatic talks to resolve the issue.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have launched heavy attacks on the city of el-Obeid in Sudan, which is currently held by the Sudanese army. If the RSF takes control, it would strengthen their power in western Sudan. The fighting is causing serious harm to civilians, with aid groups warning about possible mass violence and a worsening humanitarian situation.
Key Facts
El-Obeid is a key city in Sudan and is now under attack by the RSF paramilitary group.
The RSF has been attacking the city for weeks, with some of the fiercest fighting since 2023.
The Sudanese army currently controls el-Obeid and is defending it against the RSF.
Capturing el-Obeid would increase RSF’s influence in western Sudan.
Hundreds of thousands of civilians are affected and many cannot escape the violence.
Aid organizations warn of possible mass atrocities and a humanitarian crisis.
The United Nations and human rights groups are closely monitoring the situation.
Experts from different organizations are analyzing the conflict to understand its impact.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
In 2025 and 2026, Israeli military actions heavily damaged or destroyed many villages in southern Lebanon, forcing thousands of residents to flee and making their homes unlivable. This destruction has caused deep emotional and psychological distress among the Lebanese people, as they lose not only their homes but also places that connect them to their past and identity.
Key Facts
Israeli military withdrew from Naqoura in southern Lebanon in early 2025 but later re-invaded and destroyed the area in March 2026.
Over 11,000 buildings were fully destroyed in southern Lebanon according to a UN report.
Israeli attacks in Lebanon since March 2026 damaged or destroyed 45% of urban areas in the south.
More than 4,200 people have been killed and over 12,000 wounded during these conflicts.
Over 1.2 million Lebanese people were displaced during the peak of Israeli strikes.
Israel currently controls about 6% of Lebanese land, with a recent agreement suggesting occupation will continue.
The psychological impact on residents includes grief from losing familiar places and memories that linked them to their communities.
Experts warn that returning to these destroyed villages could cause further mental health challenges for displaced people.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
China's leader Xi Jinping praised China's fast industrial growth as a model for other developing countries. He said China wants to change the global system to better reflect the needs of poorer nations, while also focusing on strengthening its military and keeping the Communist Party in control.
Key Facts
Xi Jinping has been China's leader for 14 years.
China achieved in decades what took rich countries centuries in industrial development.
Xi promotes building a community with a shared future for all humanity.
China wants to adjust the global order to better include developing countries' interests.
Last year, China and the U.S. clashed over tariffs, leading President Trump to reduce some import taxes on Chinese goods.
Xi emphasized modernizing China's military to world-class standards and maintaining Communist Party leadership of the armed forces.
Several top Chinese generals have been removed in recent years due to corruption investigations and loyalty concerns.
Xi reiterated these themes during the 105th anniversary of the Communist Party of China.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A U.S. Navy helicopter made an emergency landing in the Arabian Sea. Three crew members were rescued, and one is still missing. The military says there is no sign the helicopter was attacked.
Key Facts
The helicopter is a four-person MH-60S Sea Hawk.
The emergency water landing happened early Wednesday morning.
Three crew members were rescued and are in stable condition.
One crew member is still missing.
The helicopter belongs to the USS George H.W. Bush aircraft carrier.
U.S. Navy forces are searching the area for the missing crew member.
Officials say no hostile action caused the helicopter to go down.
The U.S. Naval Forces Central Command provided the information.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Two people climbed to the top of the Empire State Building, above the area open to the public. They showed a large banner with a message about love and peace and then performed what looked like a marriage proposal.
Key Facts
The event took place at the Empire State Building in New York City.
The two people wore black clothes and masks.
They climbed to the very top of the building’s spire, 1,454 feet high.
They displayed a big black banner saying, “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.”
A man appeared to propose marriage to a woman on the structure.
The New York Police Department used a drone and helicopter to monitor the situation.
Police said the event was ongoing and gave no further details at that time.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A tourist visiting the Empire State Building witnessed a couple climb to the top of the building. She shared her experience in an interview with CBS News New York.
Key Facts
The event took place at the Empire State Building in New York.
Two people, described as a couple, climbed to the top of the building.
A tourist visiting the building saw the climb happen.
The tourist spoke about what she saw in a CBS News New York interview.
The story was reported by CBS News and is available in their app and on their website.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
