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The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

Killer Anesthetist Who Poisoned 30 Patients Hears Sentence

Killer Anesthetist Who Poisoned 30 Patients Hears Sentence

December 18, 2025 • Newsweek

Summary

Frédéric Péchier, a French anesthetist, has been sentenced to life in prison. He was found guilty of poisoning 30 patients, which resulted in the deaths of 12 people.

Key Facts

  • Frédéric Péchier is a French anesthetist.
  • He was found guilty of poisoning 30 patients.
  • Twelve of those patients died.
  • A court in Besançon, France, delivered the life sentence.
  • This incident has been classified as breaking news.

Source Verification

Newsweek
Ukraine War: Trump Ally Declares Russia Assets Plan 'Dead'

Ukraine War: Trump Ally Declares Russia Assets Plan 'Dead'

December 18, 2025 • Newsweek

Summary

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has declared that the plan to use $247 billion in frozen Russian assets to help Ukraine is "dead". He mentioned that enough countries opposed the plan to block it from moving forward during a European Council meeting.

Key Facts

  • Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban called the plan to seize Russian assets "dead".
  • The plan involved using $247 billion in frozen Russian assets in the EU to support Ukraine.
  • Orban noted there were enough opposing countries to form a "blocking minority".
  • A "blocking minority" means there are enough votes to stop the plan.
  • Orban is considered a close ally of U.S. President Donald Trump in Europe.
  • Orban made his remarks as he entered a European Council meeting.
  • He suggested that while there may be ongoing efforts, the issue is likely resolved.

Source Verification

Newsweek
Putin envoy to hold talks with Trump aides on U.S. peace plan in Miami this weekend

Putin envoy to hold talks with Trump aides on U.S. peace plan in Miami this weekend

December 18, 2025 • Axios

Summary

Russian President Vladimir Putin's envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, will visit Miami this weekend to discuss the U.S. peace plan for the war in Ukraine with President Trump's adviser Jared Kushner and White House envoy Steve Witkoff. A Ukrainian group led by President Zelensky's security adviser will also be there for talks, but no three-way meeting with Russian officials is planned.

Key Facts

  • Kirill Dmitriev, an envoy from Russia, will meet in Miami with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to talk about a U.S. plan for peace in Ukraine.
  • The U.S. officials will explain progress made in talks with Ukraine to the Russian representative and try to gain Russia's approval of the updated plan.
  • A team from Ukraine, led by national security adviser Rustem Umerov, will join for discussions, but not in a joint meeting with Russian officials.
  • These discussions follow recent talks between U.S. and Ukrainian officials in Berlin regarding President Trump's peace plan.
  • The talks have moved forward on security issues for Ukraine, but disagreements remain over Ukrainian territory, specifically in the Donbas region.
  • Russian demands include Ukraine giving up control of all areas it still holds in Donbas.
  • Dmitriev has been discussing the peace plan with Trump’s advisers since two months ago, and he recently met with Putin and Trump’s team in Moscow.
  • Dmitriev's planned visit to Miami was initially reported by Politico.

Source Verification

Axios
‘No evidence’ Australia’s Bondi gunmen trained in the Philippines: Official

‘No evidence’ Australia’s Bondi gunmen trained in the Philippines: Official

December 18, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Philippine officials stated there is no evidence that the suspects in the Bondi Beach shooting attack received military training in the Philippines. The suspects, a father and son, visited the Philippines for almost a month before the attack but mainly stayed in their hotel. Meanwhile, Australia's government plans to tighten hate speech laws following the attack.

Key Facts

  • Philippine National Security Adviser said no evidence shows the Bondi Beach suspects received military training in the Philippines.
  • Suspects Sajid and Naveed Akram were in the Philippines from November 1 to 28, mainly staying in Davao City.
  • Sajid Akram used an Indian passport, and Naveed used an Australian passport for their travel.
  • Sajid Akram was killed by police during the attack, while Naveed Akram faces charges, including murder and terrorism, after waking from a coma.
  • Mindanao has been described as a hotspot for extremism, but officials say its threat level is now reduced.
  • Australia plans new laws against hate speech, including making it easier to charge individuals and organizations promoting it.
  • Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that rising anti-Semitism led to the attack being an assault on both the Jewish community and the Australian way of life.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Trump's Venezuela Blockade Forces China to Choose

Trump's Venezuela Blockade Forces China to Choose

December 18, 2025 • Newsweek

Summary

China showed only verbal support for Venezuela and did not commit to any material aid after a call between their foreign ministers. The U.S. has imposed a blockade on Venezuela's oil tankers, forcing China to choose between supporting Venezuela or maintaining stable relations with the U.S. under President Trump. China has supported Venezuela’s call for an emergency UN Security Council meeting.

Key Facts

  • China did not promise aid to Venezuela after a call between their foreign ministers.
  • Venezuela faces a U.S. military blockade on its oil tankers.
  • China has to decide whether to support Venezuela or keep good relations with the U.S.
  • China has provided billions in loans to Venezuela, repaid mostly with oil.
  • China supported Venezuela in its request for an emergency UN Security Council meeting.
  • The situation is ongoing, with further updates expected.

Source Verification

Newsweek
Venezuela's Maduro Blasts Trump's 'Warmongering': Live Updates

Venezuela's Maduro Blasts Trump's 'Warmongering': Live Updates

December 18, 2025 • Newsweek

Summary

Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro criticized President Donald Trump for making aggressive statements against Venezuela. President Trump announced a military build-up and a blockade on sanctioned oil tankers as a response to alleged theft and criminal activities by Maduro's government. Tensions increased after the U.S. seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela.

Key Facts

  • President Nicolás Maduro called President Trump's threats "warmongering" and "colonialist."
  • President Trump stated that the U.S. military presence around Venezuela would increase.
  • A "total and complete" blockade was imposed on oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela.
  • The U.S. accused the Maduro regime of using oil profits for criminal activities like drug terrorism.
  • The decision came after the U.S. seized an oil tanker near Venezuela, escalating tensions.
  • Around 30 of the 80 ships in or near Venezuelan waters were under U.S. sanctions.
  • The U.S. Southern Command announced a new military strike against a vessel in the Eastern Pacific.
  • Maduro labeled the U.S. actions as “irrational” and aimed at stealing Venezuela's wealth.

Source Verification

Newsweek
Four Dead in New U.S. Drug Boat Strike Ordered by Hegseth

Four Dead in New U.S. Drug Boat Strike Ordered by Hegseth

December 18, 2025 • Newsweek

Summary

The U.S. Southern Command reported a military strike on a vessel smuggling drugs in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, resulting in the death of four men. This strike is part of a wider campaign led by President Donald Trump to combat drug trafficking. The campaign has increased tensions with countries like Venezuela and involves multiple military operations in the region.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. military conducted a strike on a drug-smuggling boat in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
  • Four men on the boat were killed, and no U.S. forces were harmed.
  • This operation is part of President Trump's plan to stop drugs from coming into the United States.
  • Since this campaign began, the U.S. has targeted 26 drug-trafficking vessels, with 98 people killed in total.
  • The military operations have caused tensions with Venezuela and Colombia.
  • The plan includes a possible intensification, with potential military actions on land mentioned.
  • There are concerns about the legality of these operations under international law.
  • U.S. forces are accused of killing survivors in a previous operation, raising legal questions.

Source Verification

Newsweek
Group of Labour MPs warns Starmer over jury trial limits

Group of Labour MPs warns Starmer over jury trial limits

December 18, 2025 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Nearly 40 Labour MPs have expressed concerns to Prime Minister Keir Starmer about plans to limit jury trials. They argue that removing the right to jury trials for certain offenses to reduce court backlogs could create more problems. Starmer has reassured that juries will still be used for the most serious cases, despite the proposed changes by Justice Secretary David Lammy.

Key Facts

  • Almost 40 Labour MPs wrote to Prime Minister Keir Starmer about their concerns.
  • The proposal would stop jury trials for crimes with likely sentences under three years.
  • MP opposition says this change won't significantly reduce court backlogs.
  • The Justice Secretary, David Lammy, announced the measure on December 3.
  • The backlogs in court are projected to reach up to 100,000 cases by 2028.
  • Currently, around 78,000 cases are waiting to be heard in Crown Court.
  • Concerns include victims, such as those of rape, dropping cases due to delays.
  • The proposal stems from recommendations by retired judge Sir Brian Leveson.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
Australian PM announces crackdown on hate speech after Bondi shooting

Australian PM announces crackdown on hate speech after Bondi shooting

December 18, 2025 • BBC World

Summary

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced plans for new laws to combat hate speech after a deadly shooting at Bondi Beach targeted a Jewish festival. Fifteen people were killed in the shooting, and the proposed laws include measures to address hate speech and antisemitism. The government aims to prevent violence and division by implementing these changes.

Key Facts

  • The Australian Prime Minister plans to introduce new laws against hate speech.
  • This follows a deadly shooting at Bondi Beach during a Jewish festival.
  • The shooting resulted in the deaths of 15 people.
  • New laws will include penalties for promoting violence and a new federal crime of "aggravated hate speech."
  • The government will create a taskforce to address antisemitism in education.
  • The home affairs minister will have increased power to cancel or deny visas for spreading hate.
  • Prime Minister Albanese acknowledged past criticism for not doing enough against antisemitism.
  • There are concerns that the new laws might affect free speech, especially in universities.

Source Verification

BBC World
Trump Approves Largest US Arms Sale to Taiwan Amid China Tensions

Trump Approves Largest US Arms Sale to Taiwan Amid China Tensions

December 18, 2025 • Newsweek

Summary

President Donald Trump's administration has approved a significant arms sale to Taiwan valued at $11.1 billion. The deal includes advanced military equipment aimed at bolstering Taiwan's defenses against potential threats from China. This comes amid ongoing tensions, as China views Taiwan as part of its territory.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. approved an $11.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan on Wednesday.
  • Taiwan will receive military equipment, including rocket launchers, missile systems, and drones.
  • The sale is intended to strengthen Taiwan's defenses, especially along its coast.
  • China claims Taiwan as its own, although it has never governed the island.
  • Chinese President Xi Jinping believes unification with Taiwan is inevitable.
  • U.S. defense officials are concerned about China's military plans concerning Taiwan.
  • This deal follows a previously declined $400 million arms package for Taiwan.
  • The transaction is part of the Taiwan Relations Act guidelines from 1979.

Source Verification

Newsweek
King's Speech set for week after crunch elections

King's Speech set for week after crunch elections

December 18, 2025 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The King's Speech is scheduled for May 12 or 13, soon after elections happening across the UK on May 7. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will reveal his government's plans immediately following these elections. The speech is a formal event where King Charles III will announce the government's goals for the upcoming parliamentary session.

Key Facts

  • The King's Speech is planned for May 12 or 13, shortly after UK's elections on May 7.
  • Elections will take place for the Scottish Parliament, Welsh Senedd, English councils, and some mayor positions.
  • Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, will outline his government's next phase of plans after these elections.
  • The King's Speech is a traditional event marking the start of a new parliamentary session.
  • The speech is written by the government but is delivered by King Charles III.
  • It details the government's legislative agenda for the year.
  • Challenges to Sir Keir's leadership may be harder if the King's Speech is near, according to some sources.
  • The event signifies the formal start of a new session of Parliament.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
'Maybe she's an angel now' says aunt of 10-year-old Bondi victim

'Maybe she's an angel now' says aunt of 10-year-old Bondi victim

December 18, 2025 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

At a Hanukkah event in Bondi Beach, Sydney, two gunmen shot and killed 15 people, including a 10-year-old girl named Matilda. The attack has been labeled a terrorist incident motivated by extremist ideology. Matilda's family urged the community to spread love in her memory rather than anger.

Key Facts

  • A shooting at Bondi Beach during a Hanukkah event resulted in 15 deaths, including 10-year-old Matilda.
  • The attack is the deadliest in Australia since the Port Arthur massacre in 1996.
  • Police attribute the attack to extremist ideology linked to the Islamic State group.
  • The gunmen were a father and son; the father was killed on the scene, and the son has been charged with numerous crimes, including murder.
  • Matilda's family moved to Australia from Ukraine believing it would be a safe place.
  • The Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, announced plans to strengthen laws against hate and antisemitism.
  • Matilda's family requested that her memory inspire love and happiness rather than anger.
  • Jewish community leaders are calling for more action against rising antisemitism.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
The Papers: 'Abramovich clings on to $2.5bn' and 'Ban doctors strike'

The Papers: 'Abramovich clings on to $2.5bn' and 'Ban doctors strike'

December 18, 2025 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The UK Prime Minister is considering legal action against Roman Abramovich to ensure he donates £2.5 billion, from the sale of Chelsea Football Club, to Ukrainian war victims. The money is currently frozen due to disagreements on its use. Another major focus is on the UK's expensive re-entry into the EU's Erasmus student exchange program.

Key Facts

  • The UK Prime Minister wants Roman Abramovich to donate £2.5 billion from selling Chelsea Football Club to Ukrainian war victims.
  • Abramovich believes he has a strong legal case to distribute the funds as he wishes.
  • The money is currently frozen in a British bank account.
  • The UK rejoining the Erasmus program could cost over £8 billion.
  • The Erasmus membership cost is higher due to future increases in the program's funding.
  • The UK military is preparing to send peacekeeping forces to Ukraine if needed.
  • Doctors in the UK are striking, causing concern about NHS service levels.
  • Police in the UK plan to take action against pro-Palestinian chants they consider inflammatory.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 1,393

Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 1,393

December 18, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

On December 18, Ukrainian drones attacked a tanker in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, causing deaths and injuries. Both Russia and Ukraine have made territorial advances, with Russia capturing a village in Ukraine and Ukraine regaining much of Kupiansk. The US and Russia plan to discuss a peace deal, while the US Senate approved military aid for Ukraine.

Key Facts

  • Ukrainian drones hit a tanker in Rostov-on-Don, causing a fire and casualties.
  • Ukraine reported attacks on a Slavyansk oil refinery in Russia’s Krasnodar region.
  • Russian bombs in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, injured 26 people, including a child.
  • Ukraine claims control over 90% of Kupiansk, refuting Russian claims of capture.
  • Russia captured the village of Herasymivka in eastern Ukraine.
  • Russian President Putin stated Russian forces will expand in Ukraine if peace talks falter.
  • US and Russian officials are set to meet in Miami to discuss ending the conflict.
  • The US Senate passed a bill for $800 million in military aid to Ukraine.
  • Norway plans to buy $290 million worth of ammunition for Ukrainian defense.
  • The European Parliament approved a plan to end Russian gas imports by 2027.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Will it be cold enough to snow this Christmas?

Will it be cold enough to snow this Christmas?

December 18, 2025 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Parts of the UK might see snow this Christmas due to colder air moving in from eastern Europe and possibly Scandinavia. The weather will be chillier and there may be a chance of sleet or snow in eastern areas, although a white Christmas is unlikely for most areas.

Key Facts

  • The UK will experience colder weather leading up to Christmas.
  • Temperatures may fall to 6-9°C, which is below the December average.
  • Cold air from eastern Europe is the main cause of the drop in temperatures.
  • There's a small chance of even colder air coming from Scandinavia.
  • Changes in wind direction will influence the weather, possibly bringing sleet or snow.
  • Eastern parts of the UK may get showers, with a slight chance of snow.
  • A rainy Christmas is not expected, providing relief to areas recently hit by heavy rain.
  • Snow on Christmas Day in the UK is rare and becoming less common over time.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
EU leaders face crunch decision on loaning Russia's frozen cash to Ukraine

EU leaders face crunch decision on loaning Russia's frozen cash to Ukraine

December 18, 2025 • BBC World

Summary

European Union leaders are meeting in Brussels to discuss whether to loan billions of euros in frozen Russian assets to Ukraine to help fund its military and economic needs. Most of these assets are held in Belgium, and some EU countries are against using this money. The meeting is a critical moment for Ukraine, which needs financial support to continue facing the conflict with Russia.

Key Facts

  • EU leaders are having a two-day meeting in Brussels to decide on using frozen Russian money for Ukraine.
  • Russia's frozen assets in the EU total about €210 billion, mostly held by a firm in Belgium.
  • Belgium and some other EU countries are not in favor of using the frozen assets for Ukraine.
  • Ukraine's financial resources are running low and need a boost soon.
  • Russia has warned the EU against using its money and has taken legal action in a Moscow court.
  • The European Commission suggests loaning Ukraine about €90 billion from the frozen assets.
  • Another idea is for the EU to borrow the money from international markets, but this needs agreement from all EU members, which is currently blocked by Hungary.

Source Verification

BBC World
Watch: Mother polar bear seen interacting with adopted cub

Watch: Mother polar bear seen interacting with adopted cub

December 18, 2025 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A polar bear in northern Canada has adopted a cub that is not her biological offspring. Scientists are studying this unusual case and are trying to find out what happened to the adopted cub's original mother by analyzing genetic samples.

Key Facts

  • A mother polar bear was first seen with one cub after leaving her maternity den.
  • Later, she was observed with two cubs, indicating one was adopted.
  • Scientists do not know what happened to the adopted cub's biological mother.
  • Researchers are using genetic samples to try to identify the biological mother of the adopted cub.
  • This adoption case is rare and of interest to scientists studying polar bears.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
Noise and flashing lights - How to avoid Christmas rows with neighbours

Noise and flashing lights - How to avoid Christmas rows with neighbours

December 18, 2025 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The article discusses how to handle common disputes with neighbors during the Christmas season, focusing on issues like noise, lights, and parking. It provides advice on how to manage these situations through communication or legal channels. Solutions include using light timers, informing neighbors of upcoming parties, and contacting local authorities when necessary.

Key Facts

  • Christmas lights can be a nuisance if they interfere with sleep or enjoyment of a home.
  • Neighbors experiencing light issues should consider talking politely to those responsible first.
  • Noise from holiday parties can be reduced by informing neighbors beforehand.
  • Blocking driveways during holiday gatherings is a common parking issue.
  • Dumping Christmas trees in public places is illegal and considered fly-tipping.
  • Most UK councils offer recycling schemes for Christmas trees.
  • Households produce about one-third more waste during the holiday season.
  • If informal talks fail, local councils can address persistent issues.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
The surprising truth about the generations that suffer loneliness the most

The surprising truth about the generations that suffer loneliness the most

December 18, 2025 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Recent studies show that people in their 20s report high levels of loneliness in Britain, more than any other age group. Factors like moving frequently and remote work contribute to this issue. Experts say that while young people can connect online, it does not fully make up for real-life social interactions.

Key Facts

  • A study found 33% of Britons aged 16 to 29 feel lonely often, which is the highest among all age groups.
  • Only 17% of people over 70 reported feeling lonely at similar rates.
  • Reports by the World Health Organization indicate young adults globally experience high levels of loneliness.
  • Some research shows people over 85 also face significant loneliness.
  • Many young adults live with housemates they do not know well, which adds to feelings of isolation.
  • The increase in remote work means less in-person social interaction for many young people.
  • Despite internet access, online friendships do not replace real-world connections for many young adults.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
In this secret missile factory, Ukraine is ramping up its domestic arms industry

In this secret missile factory, Ukraine is ramping up its domestic arms industry

December 18, 2025 • BBC World

Summary

Ukraine is increasing its production of domestically-made weapons, including a new long-range missile called the Flamingo, to support its defense against Russia. The Flamingo missile can reach up to 3,000 kilometers and is built in secret factories. President Zelensky stated that over half of Ukraine's frontline weapons are now produced within the country.

Key Facts

  • Ukraine is making a new long-range cruise missile called the Flamingo.
  • The Flamingo missile has a range of up to 3,000 kilometers (about 1,900 miles).
  • The missiles are built in secret locations to keep them safe from attacks.
  • Over 50% of Ukraine's frontline weapons are now made domestically.
  • Ukraine's domestic arms production has increased since the start of the war.
  • Ukraine began the war with mainly Soviet-era weapons but now uses modern systems like drones.
  • The Flamingo missile is similar in range to the U.S. Tomahawk missile.
  • Ukraine's long-range strikes are aimed at reducing Russia's military and economic capabilities.

Source Verification

BBC World