The Actual News

Neutral summaries of your favorite news sources — just the facts.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

New Activity at China-Linked Spy Sites in Cuba

New Activity at China-Linked Spy Sites in Cuba

Summary

Satellite images show that Cuba has expanded a listening site near Florida, which may be connected to China. This expansion might increase tensions between the United States and Cuba, especially as the U.S. accuses Cuba of hosting facilities that gather sensitive U.S. military information.

Key Facts

  • Cuba has expanded a listening site at Bejucal, about 50 miles south of Havana.
  • The site may be linked to Chinese intelligence operations.
  • Bejucal now has 32 large antennae arranged in a circular pattern called a Circularly Disposed Antenna Array (CDAA).
  • A CDAA helps find the direction of radio signals over long distances.
  • The site could help Cuba or China monitor U.S. military activities in the Caribbean and nearby areas.
  • The U.S. has increased sanctions and an oil blockade against Cuba recently.
  • China supports Cuba and opposes U.S. sanctions and blockades.
  • Experts say the site is mainly used to track U.S. military signals, not to build Cuba’s military defenses.
Read the Original

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

Two men jailed for arson attacks on property linked to UK prime minister

Two men jailed for arson attacks on property linked to UK prime minister

Summary

Two men were jailed for starting fires at homes connected to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. They were paid by someone using the name "El Money" through a messaging app, but their main reason for the attacks was money, not politics.

Key Facts

  • Roman Lavrynovych, 22, and Stanislav Carpiuc, 27, were convicted of arson attacks on property linked to Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
  • The attacks happened overnight in May 2025 in London, targeting houses and a car once owned by Starmer.
  • They were paid by a person called "El Money" using the messaging app Telegram.
  • Lavrynovych was sentenced to seven years in jail; Carpiuc got two years.
  • Prosecutors said the men had no political motive but acted for financial gain.
  • "El Money" communicated in Russian and Ukrainian, but the true identity or group behind the name is unknown.
  • UK police found no direct evidence linking the two men or "El Money" to the Russian government.
  • The Russian embassy denied involvement, stating Russia poses no threat to UK security.
Read the Original

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

EU leaders disagree on creation of Kremlin back-channel amid Ukraine war

EU leaders disagree on creation of Kremlin back-channel amid Ukraine war

Summary

European Union leaders could not agree on creating a secret communication channel with Russia to protect EU interests if peace talks succeed in ending Russia’s war in Ukraine. Some leaders want direct Ukraine-Russia talks without EU mediation, while others see value in opening dialogue, but Russia demands talks without pressure.

Key Facts

  • EU leaders met for two days but disagreed on setting up a back-channel to Moscow.
  • European Council President António Costa proposed contacting Russia through a senior official but not to lead negotiations.
  • Many EU countries doubt Russian President Vladimir Putin is willing to negotiate seriously.
  • Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš said Europe cannot decide if or who will lead peace talks.
  • Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin supports opening a contact channel but stresses Ukraine-Russia talks first.
  • German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said talks must include Ukraine, Russia, Europe, and the U.S.
  • Russia says it is ready for talks if Europe stops approaching from a position of force.
  • Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov rejected Western accusations and warned about the risk of nuclear conflict.
  • Some EU leaders, like Estonia’s Foreign Minister, want to support Ukraine strongly instead of acting as neutral mediators.
Read the Original

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

Italy : Meloni says Trump 'made up' story that she 'begged' him for photo

Italy : Meloni says Trump 'made up' story that she 'begged' him for photo

Summary

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said that President Donald Trump made up a story claiming she begged him for a photo during the G7 summit. President Trump said he felt sorry for her and agreed to take the photo, even though he was not obligated to.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump claimed Premier Giorgia Meloni begged him for a photo at the G7 summit.
  • Trump said he was not required to take the photo but agreed because he felt sorry for Meloni.
  • Giorgia Meloni denied the story, saying Trump made it up.
  • The incident happened during the recent G7 meeting.
  • The story involves two high-profile political figures from Italy and the United States.
  • Both leaders’ statements contradict each other about the photo request.
Read the Original

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

'Major discovery': France's National Library brings forgotten Mozart manuscript back to life

'Major discovery': France's National Library brings forgotten Mozart manuscript back to life

Summary

France's National Library found a lost music notebook written by Mozart in 1778. This notebook includes exercises and pieces for flute and harp, and its music will be played publicly for the first time in Paris.

Key Facts

  • The notebook was found by François-Pierre Goy, a curator at the National Library of France.
  • It contains seven pieces for harp and flute and daily exercises Mozart gave to a French harp student.
  • The student was Marie-Louise-Philippine de Bonnieres de Guines, daughter of the Duke of Guines.
  • The notebook dates back to Mozart’s stay in Paris in 1778 when he was 22 years old.
  • The document was authenticated by the Mozarteum Foundation in Austria in April 2026.
  • The music was recovered from materials confiscated during the French Revolution and kept at the National Library.
  • Mozart died in 1791 at age 35, making such discoveries very rare.
  • The discovery gives new insight into Mozart’s role as a teacher and his last visit to Paris.
Read the Original

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

WATCH:  Music superstars help celebrate Obama Presidential Center opening

WATCH: Music superstars help celebrate Obama Presidential Center opening

Summary

The Obama Presidential Center in Chicago officially opened with a celebration that included performances by famous singers and musicians. Jennifer Hudson sang the National Anthem, and stars like Christina Aguilera and Stevie Wonder also performed.

Key Facts

  • The Obama Presidential Center opened in Chicago.
  • Jennifer Hudson performed the National Anthem at the event.
  • Other performers included Christina Aguilera, John Legend, Common, Stevie Wonder, and Bruce Springsteen.
  • The event marked the official start of activities at the center.
  • The center is named after President Barack Obama.
Read the Original

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

From us

No ads. Just the news.

It's free for everyone. If it's useful, support us at a price that feels right.

U.K. actress accused of trying to smuggle $208M of meth into Australia

U.K. actress accused of trying to smuggle $208M of meth into Australia

Summary

A British actress, Emaa Hussen, has been charged with trying to smuggle 700 pounds of methamphetamine worth $208 million into Australia. The drugs were hidden in charcoal bags shipped from Ghana, and police arrested her in Sydney after finding the drugs in storage.

Key Facts

  • Emaa Hussen is a 34-year-old British actress known for roles in "Redemption" and "EastEnders."
  • She appeared in court in Sydney on charges of attempting to smuggle methamphetamine into Australia.
  • The drugs were disguised in bags of charcoal inside shipping containers sent from Ghana.
  • Police believe the meth seized could have made 3.2 million deals on Australian streets.
  • The investigation started in April when authorities found a white crystal-like substance in two containers.
  • Hussen helped unload the containers and load goods into a vehicle before police arrested her at a home.
  • Two South African suspects were also arrested for using fake IDs to rent storage units linked to the case.
  • Hussen was denied bail and is scheduled to appear in court again in August.
Read the Original

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

Anne Hathaway pregnant, expecting baby No. 3

Anne Hathaway pregnant, expecting baby No. 3

Summary

Actress Anne Hathaway announced she is pregnant with her third child. She shared the news in a video on her Instagram account, showing her baby bump and smiling.

Key Facts

  • Anne Hathaway is 43 years old.
  • She announced her third pregnancy on Instagram with a video.
  • The video showed her wearing a white skirt and revealing her pregnancy.
  • The post got over 800,000 likes within 30 minutes.
  • Anne Hathaway is married to Adam Shulman.
  • They have two sons: Jonathan, 10 years old, and Jack, 6 years old.
  • Hathaway and Shulman have been married since 2012.
  • She is known for movies like "The Devil Wears Prada" and “Princess Diaries.”
Read the Original

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

Israel continues attacks on Lebanon despite agreeing to ceasefire

Israel continues attacks on Lebanon despite agreeing to ceasefire

Summary

Israel and Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire starting Friday afternoon after mediation by the US, Qatar, and Iran. Despite this, Israel continued air raids and shelling in southern Lebanon, causing confusion and doubt about the ceasefire’s effectiveness.

Key Facts

  • A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah was set to begin at 4pm local time on Friday.
  • The ceasefire was negotiated with the help of the US, Qatar, and Iran.
  • Despite the ceasefire, Israel launched at least 12 air raids and artillery strikes in southern Lebanon after the deadline.
  • Lebanese health officials reported 47 people killed and 97 wounded in Israeli attacks starting Friday at midnight.
  • Israeli military stated it would keep the right to respond to threats in southern Lebanon, allowing continued strikes.
  • Hezbollah said the ceasefire would hold if Israel stopped attacking.
  • Iranian Foreign Minister accused Israel of wanting “permanent war.”
  • Israeli National Security Minister called for major military escalation against Lebanon after Israeli soldier deaths.
Read the Original

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

WATCH:  Scientists warn of invasive jellyfish on East coast

WATCH: Scientists warn of invasive jellyfish on East coast

Summary

Scientists have found an invasive jellyfish with a painful sting spreading in waterways along the East Coast. They warn people to be aware of this jellyfish, especially as summer activities increase near the water.

Key Facts

  • The invasive jellyfish is appearing in East Coast waterways.
  • It has a sting that can cause pain.
  • Scientists have issued warnings ahead of the busy summer season.
  • The jellyfish are not native to the area, meaning they have moved from their original home.
  • The presence of this jellyfish may affect people who swim or spend time in coastal waters.
  • There are ongoing efforts to monitor and study this species.
  • The warning aims to help prevent stings and raise public awareness.
Read the Original

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

New analysis shows what's missing from the Epstein files

New analysis shows what's missing from the Epstein files

Summary

A CBS News analysis looked at the files released in the case of Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. The analysis found that some important documents seem to be missing from these files.

Key Facts

  • Jeffrey Epstein was a convicted sex offender.
  • CBS News reviewed the files related to Epstein’s case.
  • The analysis found gaps or missing documents in the released files.
  • The missing documents raise questions about the full details of the case.
  • CBS News correspondent Vlad Duthiers reported on the search for answers.
  • The analysis was shared through CBS News platforms, including their app.
  • The investigation into Epstein's case remains a topic of public interest.
Read the Original

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

Paris police ban Iranian opposition rally, cite 'tense international context'

Paris police ban Iranian opposition rally, cite 'tense international context'

Summary

Paris police banned a rally planned by an Iranian opposition group, citing concerns about possible violence and public disorder. The group, which opposes the Iranian government, said the cancellation happened last minute and disagreed with the reasons given by the police.

Key Facts

  • The rally was organized by the National Resistance Council of Iran (NRCI), linked to the People's Mujahedin of Iran (MEK), an outlawed group in Iran.
  • Police said the ban was due to risks of clashes during a tense international and national situation.
  • The planned march route passed near public buildings and diplomatic missions.
  • Organizers claim the cancellation was sudden and question the police's reasons.
  • There was a call between the French and Iranian foreign ministers before the ban, but the French ministry denied any request to cancel the rally.
  • The demonstration aimed to protest a recent wave of executions in Iran amid conflict in the Middle East.
  • The NRCI expected about 100,000 participants for the rally.
  • Since the start of the Middle East war, more than 40 people have been executed in Iran, many linked to opposition groups like the MEK.
Read the Original

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

From us

Pay what it's worth to you

We dropped the ads. Support independent, no-spin news at the suggested $3.99/month.

Scientists discover parasite that preys on insect-killing "zombie fungus"

Scientists discover parasite that preys on insect-killing "zombie fungus"

Summary

Scientists in Malaysia discovered a new parasitic fungus species that attacks "zombie fungus," which infects and kills insects. This new fungus was found in Borneo’s rainforest and feeds on the tissue of the zombie fungus inside infected ants.

Key Facts

  • The new fungus is called Pleurocordyceps cornusynnemata and was found in Borneo’s Malaysian rainforests.
  • It is a hyperparasite, meaning it parasitizes another parasite (the zombie fungus Ophiocordyceps).
  • The zombie fungus controls ants’ behavior before killing them, and this new fungus feeds on the zombie fungus itself.
  • The discovery was made by the University of Malaysia Sabah’s Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation.
  • The research was published in scientific journals including the New Zealand Journal of Botany and Phytotaxa.
  • Scientists also found a new spider-killing fungus during the same research trips.
  • These fungi may help develop new antimicrobial medicines and tools to control pests in farming.
  • Experts say these fungi cannot infect humans because of our body temperature and immune system.
Read the Original

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

Latest news on Iran deal as Israel and Hezbollah appear to reach ceasefire

Latest news on Iran deal as Israel and Hezbollah appear to reach ceasefire

Summary

Israel and Hezbollah have agreed to stop fighting in Lebanon after a tense clash. This ceasefire helps protect the ongoing efforts by the United States and Iran to reach a new agreement.

Key Facts

  • Israel and Hezbollah have reached a ceasefire in Lebanon.
  • The recent fighting between them was tense and could have harmed peace talks.
  • The ceasefire supports negotiations between the U.S. and Iran.
  • Multiple diplomats confirmed the ceasefire to CBS News.
  • The conflict had the potential to disrupt the Iran deal process.
  • Experts from security and defense backgrounds are monitoring the situation.
  • The U.S.-Iran agreement aims to reduce nuclear tensions and improve relations.
Read the Original

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

Europe: How energy crises are accelerating the shift to renewables

Europe: How energy crises are accelerating the shift to renewables

Summary

Europe is facing energy crises and rising political tensions. These challenges are pushing countries to use more renewable energy sources like wind and solar power to ensure stable and secure energy supplies.

Key Facts

  • Belgium is charging trucks using wind energy stored in batteries.
  • Energy crises are increasing the urgency of renewable energy beyond just fighting climate change.
  • Renewable energy helps countries reduce dependence on oil and gas from unstable regions.
  • Geopolitical tensions are affecting Europe’s energy security.
  • The European Union is actively working on policies to support the energy transition.
  • Solar and wind power are key renewable energy sources gaining importance in Europe.
  • Energy security means having a reliable and safe energy supply, which renewables can help with.
  • The shift to renewables is accelerating due to the current energy and political challenges.
Read the Original

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

‘Destruction is the goal’: Israel steers between the US, Iran, and Lebanon

‘Destruction is the goal’: Israel steers between the US, Iran, and Lebanon

Summary

Israel is upset about a new agreement between the US and Iran that calls for ending military actions, including in Lebanon. After the deal, Israel launched attacks on Lebanon while also facing attacks from Hezbollah, leading to casualties on both sides and a US-backed ceasefire. Israeli leaders and the public are worried about the deal and have mixed feelings about their relationship with President Trump.

Key Facts

  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not openly opposed the US-Iran deal but Israel is angry and concerned about it.
  • The US-Iran agreement includes stopping all military operations, including in Lebanon.
  • Israel responded to the deal by attacking Lebanon, killing at least 47 people.
  • Hezbollah killed four Israeli soldiers, increasing tensions.
  • Far-right Israeli officials expressed strong anger toward Lebanon following these events.
  • A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah was reportedly agreed on Friday, likely due to US pressure.
  • Many Israelis feel the war with Iran did not achieve its goals and are disappointed with Netanyahu and President Trump.
  • US Vice President JD Vance spoke in support of Israel and warned Israeli officials against attacking the US, Israel’s main ally.
Read the Original

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

Cuba: Between charcoal and solar panels

Cuba: Between charcoal and solar panels

Summary

In Havana, Cuba, people are looking at solar power systems in stores because electricity outages are common. Many Cubans rely on charcoal for energy, but some want solar panels despite their high cost.

Key Facts

  • A 3-kilowatt solar power system costs about $3,678 in Cuba.
  • Larger solar systems, like a 10-kilowatt one, cost over $10,000.
  • Many Cubans face long power outages, sometimes over a day.
  • Some Cubans get help from abroad to afford solar panels.
  • Solar panels and lithium batteries are becoming available in Cuban stores.
  • Traditional energy sources like charcoal are still widely used.
  • The neighborhood of Regla experienced a 26-hour power outage.
  • Solar energy offers a possible solution to Cuba’s ongoing electricity problems.
Read the Original

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

France tries to cope with second premature heatwave in less than a month

France tries to cope with second premature heatwave in less than a month

Summary

France is experiencing a second early heatwave in less than a month, with temperatures expected to reach or go above 40°C (104°F) by June 21. The heat has caused some local events to be canceled and forced nuclear power plants to reduce output because the rivers they use for cooling are too warm.

Key Facts

  • France is facing a widespread and intense heatwave earlier than usual.
  • Temperatures are expected to reach or exceed 40°C on June 21, 2026.
  • Some towns have canceled Fete de la Musique, a major music festival, due to the heat.
  • EDF, the French state electric company, warned that three nuclear plants will reduce power next week.
  • The nuclear plants rely on the Rhone and Garonne rivers for cooling, and these rivers are unusually warm.
  • This is the second premature heatwave in France within a month.
  • Heatwaves like this are linked to changing climate conditions.
Read the Original

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

From us

You're the one who keeps this going

No ads, no paywall. Pay what you want to keep it that way — suggested $3.99/month.

Petrol shortages and ‘oil rain’ bring Russia-Ukraine war home to Moscow

Petrol shortages and ‘oil rain’ bring Russia-Ukraine war home to Moscow

Summary

Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil facilities have caused fuel shortages and rationing in many parts of Russia, including Moscow. Meanwhile, Ukraine received over 10 billion euros in new military aid from European allies and made progress toward joining the European Union.

Key Facts

  • Ukraine launched strikes on Russian oil infrastructure, damaging a major Moscow refinery twice in one week.
  • The refinery supplies over 38% of Moscow’s fuel, including fuel for six nearby airports.
  • The attacks caused “oil rain” (black soot falling from the sky) and forced several Moscow airports to close.
  • Fuel rationing is now in place in 53 Russian regions and occupied Ukraine; Moscow petrol stations limit sales to 20 liters of petrol per customer.
  • Russia’s oil production fell below target in May due to production cuts and damage from Ukrainian attacks.
  • Russia is responding by selling lower-quality fuel and planning to import more refined petroleum from Asia.
  • Ukraine secured 4 billion euros in military aid for missiles, artillery, and drones from allies including Germany and the EU.
  • Ukraine made progress on EU membership talks after Hungary’s leader, who delayed talks, lost power.
Read the Original

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

Italy's Meloni pushes back on Trump's 'fabricated' claim as top diplomat cancels U.S. trip

Italy's Meloni pushes back on Trump's 'fabricated' claim as top diplomat cancels U.S. trip

Summary

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and the Italian government strongly rejected U.S. President Donald Trump's claim that she begged for a photo with him at the recent G7 summit. In response, Italy’s Foreign Minister canceled a U.S. visit, calling Trump's comments offensive to Italy and Meloni.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump claimed Meloni begged him for a photo during the G7 summit.
  • Italian Prime Minister Meloni called Trump's claims "completely fabricated" and said Italy does not beg.
  • Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani canceled a planned trip to the U.S. over Trump’s remarks.
  • Italian officials, including ministers and the President, showed strong support for Meloni.
  • Meloni has criticized some U.S. policies, including the war in Iran and Trump's stances on Ukraine and Gaza.
  • Meloni had positioned herself as a link between the U.S. and Europe at the start of Trump’s second term.
  • Relations between Italy and the U.S. have worsened due to disagreements on foreign policy and trade issues.
  • Trump’s previous comments had also criticized Meloni for not supporting the U.S.-Israel war in Iran.
Read the Original

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

Save articles & personalize your feed — Create a free account