Account

The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

Abuse at French after-school programmes: Parents sound the alarm

Abuse at French after-school programmes: Parents sound the alarm

Summary

Parents in Paris and across France have reported cases of physical and sexual abuse of children during after-school care and lunch breaks at schools. In 2026, 78 youth workers in Paris were suspended, with 31 suspected of sexual abuse. Parents say their warnings were ignored, and children's trauma has been worsened by the handling of cases in the justice system.

Key Facts

  • Abuse reports involve nursery and school children during after-school and lunch supervision.
  • In 2026, Paris suspended 78 youth workers, including 31 for suspected sexual abuse.
  • The problem is national, not limited to Paris.
  • Parents have held protests demanding action and better safety measures.
  • Children have suffered psychological harm and must repeat traumatic statements in court.
  • Studies show less than 1% of children’s abuse allegations are false, but they are often doubted.
  • A group named 'Afterschool programmes in crisis' collected over 80 testimonies revealing widespread abuse.
  • Issues include poor staff training and flawed hiring processes in after-school programs.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Mystery Palestinian flag continues to fly high over Dublin as removal deemed too risky

Mystery Palestinian flag continues to fly high over Dublin as removal deemed too risky

Summary

A Palestinian flag has flown on top of Dublin’s tallest monument, the 120-meter Spire, since last September. City officials have not removed it because they consider the attempts too dangerous, expensive, or unlikely to succeed. No one has said who placed the flag, but it is believed to have been hung by a drone.

Key Facts

  • The Palestinian flag appeared on the Spire in Dublin in September and has remained there for seven months.
  • The Spire is a 120-meter tall stainless steel monument on O’Connell Street, erected in 2003.
  • Authorities have rejected removal methods like climbing ropes, special ladders, and cranes due to safety, cost, and difficulty.
  • The flag is about 105 meters high and attached to a hoop; it is often tangled and hard to see from the ground.
  • No person or group has claimed responsibility for placing the flag.
  • The Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign supports the flag’s presence.
  • The Spire stands on a historic site near the General Post Office, linked to Ireland’s 1916 rebellion.
  • The flag is suspected to have been placed using a drone.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Last Kenyan police officers leave Haiti after unsuccessful security mission

Last Kenyan police officers leave Haiti after unsuccessful security mission

Summary

All Kenyan police officers sent to Haiti to help fight gangs have left the country. Their mission, approved by the United Nations, was unable to stop the violence and gang control in Haiti.

Key Facts

  • Kenya led the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) to help Haiti's police.
  • The mission started after approval by the UN Security Council in late 2023.
  • The goal was to support Haiti's overwhelmed police force against gangs.
  • Despite the mission, powerful gangs still control large areas in Haiti.
  • Violence continues to be a big problem in the Caribbean nation.
  • The Kenyan police officers have now completely withdrawn from Haiti.
  • A new UN-approved operation is starting to address the security situation.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Former French president Sarkozy testifies in Libya appeals trial

Former French president Sarkozy testifies in Libya appeals trial

Summary

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy appeared in the Paris Court of Appeal for his appeals trial. He is being questioned about documents by his ex-assistant Claude Gueant that relate to allegations of Libya funding Sarkozy’s 2007 presidential campaign.

Key Facts

  • Nicolas Sarkozy is the former president of France.
  • He appeared at the Paris Court of Appeal on April 29, 2026.
  • The trial concerns claims that Libya illegally gave money to fund Sarkozy’s 2007 campaign.
  • Sarkozy is being questioned about two documents written by Claude Gueant, his former close aide.
  • These documents signal a change in the defense strategy for Sarkozy’s appeals trial.
  • The trial is part of ongoing legal proceedings over alleged foreign election funding.
  • The case has attracted international attention due to its political implications.
  • This event is part of a broader investigation into corruption and campaign financing in French politics.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Israeli strike kills five family members in Lebanon

Israeli strike kills five family members in Lebanon

Summary

An Israeli air strike hit a residential building in Jebchit, Lebanon, killing five family members. Videos show the area severely damaged by the attack.

Key Facts

  • The strike was carried out by Israel.
  • It targeted a home in Jebchit, a town in Lebanon.
  • Five members of one family died in the attack.
  • Video footage shows heavy destruction at the site.
  • The building was used as a residence.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Kim Says North Korean Troops Killed Themselves To Avoid Capture By Ukraine

Kim Says North Korean Troops Killed Themselves To Avoid Capture By Ukraine

Summary

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un praised troops who killed themselves rather than be captured by Ukrainian forces during the ongoing conflict involving Russia and Ukraine. North Korea sent special forces and military supplies to support Russia, following a military agreement between Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Key Facts

  • North Korea sent about 1,500 special forces to Russia in October 2024, later increasing the number to an estimated 15,000 according to South Korea.
  • Over 6,000 North Korean troops are reported killed, though North Korea and Russia have not confirmed this number.
  • Kim Jong Un honored soldiers who used suicide attacks to avoid capture by Ukrainian forces during a recent ceremony.
  • North Korean and Russian troops worked together in the Kursk region to counter a Ukrainian offensive.
  • Russia and North Korea have a military assistance agreement to help each other if attacked.
  • North Korea sent approximately 33,000 containers of munitions to Russia, enough for about 15 million artillery shells.
  • Ukrainian officials found traces of North Korean-made missiles in the conflict zones.
  • There are concerns that Russia may be sharing military technology with North Korea in return.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

US forces board ship suspected of heading to Iran port

US forces board ship suspected of heading to Iran port

Summary

US Marines boarded a commercial ship called the M/V Blue Star III in the Arabian Sea because they suspected it was trying to break the US blockade on Iranian ports. After searching the ship, US Central Command confirmed it was not planning to go to any Iranian port and released it.

Key Facts

  • The boarding happened on Tuesday in the Arabian Sea.
  • The ship involved is named M/V Blue Star III.
  • The US suspected the ship might break the blockade on Iranian ports.
  • US Central Command is in charge of American forces in the Middle East.
  • After a search, the US found no reason to hold the ship.
  • The ship was confirmed not to be heading to an Iranian port.
  • The US then released the ship.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Global forest loss slows but El Niño fires could threaten progress

Global forest loss slows but El Niño fires could threaten progress

Summary

Global loss of tropical rainforests slowed down in 2025, mainly due to efforts in Brazil and other countries to protect forests. However, scientists warn that the arrival of the El Niño weather pattern and climate change could increase the risk of fires, threatening this progress.

Key Facts

  • About 43,000 square kilometers of old-growth tropical forests were lost worldwide in 2025, which is about the size of Denmark.
  • This loss is roughly one-third less than the record high losses seen in 2024.
  • The World Resources Institute and the University of Maryland reported a 36% decrease in tropical forest loss in 2025.
  • Brazil's stronger environmental laws and enforcement helped reduce forest loss to the lowest level since 2002, excluding fire-related losses.
  • Tropical rainforests absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide, helping to cool the planet.
  • Climate change and El Niño can increase droughts and wildfires, which may cause more damage to forests.
  • World leaders pledged to stop and reverse forest loss by 2030 at the 2021 COP26 climate summit, but current progress is still far from this goal.
  • Scientists emphasize the need for better fire management and increasing forest resilience against climate impacts.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

As war nears two months, displaced Lebanese families sink into despair

As war nears two months, displaced Lebanese families sink into despair

Summary

Nearly two months of war between Hezbollah and Israel have forced many families in southern Lebanon, like Rabih Khreiss and his nine children, to leave their homes. These displaced families now struggle to live in difficult conditions, such as tents in Beirut, with little food or income.

Key Facts

  • War between Hezbollah and Israel started on March 2, 2026.
  • The conflict caused many Lebanese families to leave their homes in southern Lebanon.
  • Rabih Khreiss, a father of nine, used to run a car workshop to support his family.
  • After fleeing, Rabih and his family now live in a tent in Beirut.
  • Many displaced families face food shortages and poor living conditions.
  • The fighting began when Hezbollah fired into Israel, triggering the war.
  • The situation has caused widespread despair among those forced to leave their homes.
  • The conflict is ongoing, nearing two months as of late April 2026.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Nearly all of Europe had above-average heat last year, as climate records toppled

Nearly all of Europe had above-average heat last year, as climate records toppled

Summary

Almost all of Europe experienced hotter than usual weather in 2025, with new records set for wildfires, sea temperatures, and heatwaves. European and global climate experts say these changes show worsening effects of climate change, even as some governments consider reducing efforts to cut emissions because of economic worries.

Key Facts

  • Europe saw above-average heat across nearly all regions in 2025.
  • 2025 broke climate records in wildfires, sea temperatures, and heatwaves.
  • The European Union’s scientists and the World Meteorological Organization reported these findings.
  • Climate change is causing more severe weather events in Europe.
  • Some governments want to reduce emissions-cutting policies due to economic concerns.
  • The report was shared publicly on April 29, 2026.
  • These developments highlight tensions between climate actions and economic goals.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Man offered Ukrainians money to carry out Starmer arson attacks, court hears

Man offered Ukrainians money to carry out Starmer arson attacks, court hears

Summary

A court in London heard that a man speaking Russian offered money to Ukrainian men to set fires to properties linked to UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Three men deny charges related to deliberately starting fires at these properties in May 2025.

Key Facts

  • Three men, two Ukrainians and one Romanian-born Ukrainian, are charged with planning to damage property by fire.
  • The fires took place between April 1 and May 13, 2025, in North London.
  • The locations targeted included two properties and a car once owned by Prime Minister Starmer.
  • The car was found burning on May 8, 2025, in Kentish Town, where Starmer used to live.
  • Fires at properties linked to Starmer happened on May 11 and May 12, 2025.
  • Phone messages show the men communicated with a person using the name 'El Money' offering payment to carry out the fires.
  • 'El Money' spoke in Russian, while the defendants mostly used Ukrainian in their messages.
  • The court said the men’s possible motives, including knowledge of the properties’ connection to Starmer, are not for the jury to decide.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Social media abuzz as bees colonise bike outside the Louvre Museum

Social media abuzz as bees colonise bike outside the Louvre Museum

Summary

A cyclist in Paris found his bike outside the Louvre Museum covered by a large swarm of bees. Videos of this unusual sight have become popular on social media, but such bee gatherings are not uncommon in Paris.

Key Facts

  • The event took place near the Louvre Museum in Paris.
  • Tens of thousands of bees formed a swarm on a parked bike.
  • A cyclist recorded and shared the video on social media.
  • The video gained a lot of attention online.
  • Similar bee swarms have happened before in Paris.
  • The article was published on April 29, 2026.
  • No reports of harm or danger from the bees were mentioned.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

French film show: 'The Silent Run' tells a tragic migrant story

French film show: 'The Silent Run' tells a tragic migrant story

Summary

The French film show highlights "The Silent Run," a new movie by Marta Bergman that tells a sad story about migrants facing dangerous situations. The program also features reviews of other films exploring family rituals and relationships.

Key Facts

  • "The Silent Run" is a film about the difficult experiences of migrants.
  • Marta Bergman directed the film.
  • The movie shows frightening events that many refugees go through.
  • The show also reviews "Dao," a film about family traditions in Guinea-Bissau.
  • Another film reviewed is "What is Love?" about a separated couple revisiting their past in Rome.
  • The program is part of a series showcasing recent films and cultural stories from France.
  • The films cover themes of migration, family, and human emotions.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Mali junta chief makes first appearance since rebel attacks

Mali junta chief makes first appearance since rebel attacks

Summary

Mali’s military leader appeared in public for the first time after large attacks by rebels and jihadist groups in the country’s north. He visited injured people and met with Russia’s ambassador while the situation remains difficult in the region.

Key Facts

  • Mali's military chief made his first public appearance since big rebel attacks over the weekend.
  • The attacks involved jihadists and Tuareg separatists in northern Mali.
  • The situation in Mali remains difficult according to Moscow.
  • The military leader visited wounded people affected by the attacks.
  • He also met with Russia’s ambassador, showing ongoing relations.
  • The attacks have destabilized Mali’s ruling military government, called a junta.
  • These events occurred three days before the military chief’s public appearance.
  • Northern Mali is a large, sparsely populated area known as the Sahel region.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Breaking down King Charles' visit amid strained U.S.-U.K. relationship

Breaking down King Charles' visit amid strained U.S.-U.K. relationship

Summary

King Charles and Queen Camilla visited the United States, including a stop in New York City. During the visit, King Charles spoke to the U.S. Congress and met with President Donald Trump. The visit took place while the relationship between the U.S. and the U.K. was experiencing some difficulties.

Key Facts

  • King Charles and Queen Camilla traveled to the U.S.
  • The royal couple visited New York City as part of their trip.
  • King Charles gave a speech to the U.S. Congress.
  • King Charles had a meeting with President Donald Trump.
  • The visit occurred during a time of strained relations between the U.S. and the U.K.
  • The trip was covered and analyzed by CBS News royal expert Roya Nikkhah.
  • The focus of the visit was considered important given the current state of U.S.-U.K. ties.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

World Boxing allows Russian, Belarusian boxers to compete as neutrals

World Boxing allows Russian, Belarusian boxers to compete as neutrals

Summary

World Boxing has allowed athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete as neutral participants in international boxing events starting immediately. These athletes will not display national symbols and will undergo a vetting process before competing.

Key Facts

  • World Boxing’s executive board approved the policy in April 2026.
  • Russian and Belarusian boxers will compete as Individual Neutral Athletes (AIN).
  • Athletes cannot use their countries’ flags, anthems, logos, or uniforms.
  • The policy applies to all age groups and includes coaches and team officials.
  • The decision follows World Boxing approving the Russian and Belarusian boxing federations’ membership in March.
  • The International Olympic Committee inspired this neutral athlete approach.
  • World Boxing officially informed the Russian and Belarusian federations about the new rules.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

The diplomacy at play behind the King's speeches

The diplomacy at play behind the King's speeches

Summary

King Charles III gave a speech to the US Congress where he supported NATO, highlighted the importance of Western democracy, and touched on climate change. His speech was well received, earning many standing ovations and positive reviews globally.

Key Facts

  • King Charles spoke in support of NATO, emphasizing the partnership between Europe and America.
  • He mentioned NATO’s response after the 9/11 attacks, highlighting allied cooperation.
  • The King subtly countered President Trump’s criticism of NATO and the British Navy.
  • He expressed pride in his service in the Royal Navy, referencing his father’s naval career.
  • King Charles gave President Trump a gift: the bell from the World War II British submarine HMS Trump.
  • The King referred to the Magna Carta to stress the importance of checks and balances on executive power.
  • His speech received 12 standing ovations in Congress.
  • Media worldwide praised the King for his diplomatic and subtle messaging.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Woman found guilty of killing sister in London flat and taking her diamond-encrusted Rolex watch

Woman found guilty of killing sister in London flat and taking her diamond-encrusted Rolex watch

Summary

A woman named Nancy Pexton was found guilty of killing her sister, Jennifer Abbott, in their London flat last year. Pexton stabbed Abbott multiple times, took her expensive Rolex watch, and left her body in the flat for three days before being arrested.

Key Facts

  • Nancy Pexton, 70 years old, was convicted of murdering her sister Jennifer Abbott on June 10, 2024.
  • Abbott, a 69-year-old US citizen and film director, was stabbed 10 times and left dead in her Camden flat for three days.
  • Pexton took Abbott’s diamond-encrusted gold Rolex watch, a gift from Abbott’s son, and it was later found in Pexton’s possession.
  • Abbott was last seen on camera walking her dog on the morning of the murder. Pexton called her by phone shortly after and then visited her flat.
  • A neighbor forced entry into the flat after hearing no response and seeing concern from family members.
  • Evidence showed a history of anger and conflict between the sisters, including threatening messages and notes from Pexton about harming Abbott.
  • Pexton denied the crime, did not testify, and appeared in court via video from prison.
  • Sentencing was postponed after the guilty verdict.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Colombian election reflects on ‘total peace’ promise as violence surges again

Colombian election reflects on ‘total peace’ promise as violence surges again

Summary

Colombia's 2016 peace deal helped reduce violence by stopping the main rebel group, Farc, from fighting. However, violence is rising again as some rebel factions reject the deal, and recent attacks have increased before the May 2026 presidential election, making peace a major issue for voters.

Key Facts

  • The 2016 peace deal led Farc to stop armed conflict and reduced violence in Colombia.
  • Some rebel groups, including Farc dissidents and others, did not accept the peace deal.
  • President Gustavo Petro, elected in 2022, promised “total peace” by seeking agreements with all armed groups.
  • Despite a ceasefire announcement, attacks and violence have increased, including a deadly bombing that killed 21 people.
  • The National Liberation Army (ELN), Colombia’s largest rebel group, denied agreeing to a truce with the government.
  • Fighting between rebel groups recently caused over 80 deaths and displaced 60,000 people.
  • The peace program’s failure has led to debate, with some presidential candidates wanting to end it and return to military action.
  • Armed groups use ceasefires to grow their control over drug trafficking and mining territories.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Russia scales back Moscow Victory Day parade, blaming threat from Ukraine

Russia scales back Moscow Victory Day parade, blaming threat from Ukraine

Summary

Russia will hold a smaller Victory Day parade in Moscow on May 9, removing military vehicles and cadets from the event. The Kremlin says this is due to a "terrorist threat" from Ukraine amid ongoing conflict.

Key Facts

  • The Victory Day parade celebrates the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two.
  • This year’s parade will not include military vehicles or cadets because of security concerns.
  • Moscow blames Ukraine for a threat of attacks on the parade.
  • Ukraine denies targeting civilians or the parade and says their strikes focus on military targets.
  • Last year’s parade included a large display of modern military equipment and was attended by many world leaders.
  • Russia calls its invasion of Ukraine a "special military operation."
  • Mobile communications in Moscow will face increased restrictions around the parade dates for security reasons.
  • The parade will still feature representatives from all Russian armed forces and a fly-past of aircraft.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.