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Kremlin Seeks Answers After Apple Removes Russian Apps from App Store

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Russia has demanded an explanation from Apple after several applications linked to Russian technology company VK were removed from the App Store without prior notice. VK, which operates popular social media, messaging, video, email, and educational platforms, said the company is not subject to U.S. sanctions and described Apple’s decision as unfair and unacceptable for millions of Russian users.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Russian authorities would formally seek clarification from Apple and warned that Moscow could reconsider future cooperation with the company if satisfactory answers are not provided. He also suggested that affected users could switch to Android devices, where VK’s applications remain available.

The dispute comes amid Russia’s broader effort to reduce reliance on Western technology platforms since the Ukraine conflict began in 2022. Moscow has increasingly promoted domestic digital services, including VK’s state-backed MAX messenger, while strengthening control over the country’s online ecosystem. VK remains one of Russia’s largest internet companies, with millions of daily users across its social media and video platforms.

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Deadly Omega Heatwave Scorches Europe

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A powerful “Omega” heatwave continues to grip Western Europe, breaking temperature records and causing widespread disruption across several countries. Britain recorded its hottest June temperature ever at 36.1°C, while Paris reached a record 40.9°C. Italy placed 16 cities on its highest heat alert as forecasters warned that extreme conditions could persist through the weekend.

The severe heat has claimed dozens of lives, with France reporting at least 50 deaths linked to the heatwave, including drowning incidents and heat-related fatalities. Spain also recorded deaths from heatstroke, while soaring temperatures affected power supplies, reduced nuclear plant output, disrupted transport networks, and forced schools, tourist attractions, and public events to close or scale back operations.

Meteorologists say the heatwave is being driven by an “Omega block” weather pattern that traps hot air over regions for extended periods. Experts warn that climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of such extreme weather events. With Europe warming faster than the global average, authorities across the continent are urging residents to take precautions as temperatures remain dangerously high.

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Russian Opposition Leader Jailed for Anti-War Posts

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Russian opposition politician Maxim Kruglov, deputy leader of the Yabloko party, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for allegedly spreading false information about the Russian army. The charges stem from two Telegram posts he made in 2022 regarding the war in Ukraine. Kruglov denied wrongdoing and argued that the case reflects growing restrictions on free expression in Russia.

During the court hearing, Kruglov said the prosecution effectively criminalizes political disagreement and public dissent. He rejected claims that his posts were motivated by political hatred, stating that his work has always focused on improving life in Russia. The Kremlin maintains that wartime censorship laws are necessary to preserve national unity amid its confrontation with the West.

The verdict comes just months before Russia’s parliamentary elections, in which Yabloko hopes to participate despite its limited political influence. Party leader Nikolai Rybakov condemned the ruling as unjust and urged voters to support Yabloko as a way of opposing current government policies. Kruglov reaffirmed his anti-war stance and expressed hope for a future Russia where differing opinions can be openly expressed.

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Thousands Feared Dead After Powerful Earthquakes Devastate Venezuela

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Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela near Caracas, causing widespread destruction and leaving thousands feared dead. The tremors, measuring magnitude 7.2 and 7.5, hit within a minute of each other and triggered severe aftershocks, flattening buildings and trapping residents under debris. Emergency teams rushed to rescue survivors as collapsed structures and damaged infrastructure slowed response efforts.

At least 32 deaths and hundreds of injuries have been confirmed so far, though officials warn the toll could rise dramatically. International seismic models estimate that fatalities may reach into the thousands, with some projections suggesting over 10,000 could be affected. Rescue operations are ongoing across heavily impacted regions, including La Guaira state near the capital.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as residents fled shaking buildings and filled streets in panic. Hospitals are overwhelmed with the injured, while several countries and organizations have pledged assistance. Authorities continue to search for survivors amid ongoing aftershocks, as concerns grow over damage to critical infrastructure and communication systems.

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France Reports First Ebola Case as DR Congo Outbreak Worsens

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France has confirmed its first case of Ebola after a doctor returned from a humanitarian mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The doctor was immediately admitted to a specialized medical facility and is reported to be in stable condition. French health authorities have emphasized that the risk to the general public remains very low.

The case comes as the DRC battles a major Ebola outbreak that has infected more than 1,000 people and claimed over 260 lives. The outbreak is linked to the Bundibugyo strain of the virus, for which no vaccine currently exists. Health officials are tracing individuals who may have come into contact with the infected doctor, while France has activated a dedicated monitoring system for aid workers returning from the affected region.

The World Health Organization has warned that the outbreak could become one of the largest on record, with infections concentrated in eastern DRC, particularly in Ituri province. Efforts to contain the virus have been complicated by ongoing conflict in the region, where armed groups control large areas. Neighboring Uganda has also reported Ebola cases and fatalities, raising concerns about the spread of the disease across borders.

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Hungary’s LGBTQ+ Community Pushes for Rights Restoration After Years of Restrictions

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Hungary’s LGBTQ+ community is preparing for its annual Pride march in Budapest, with activists calling for the restoration of rights that were curtailed during the 16-year rule of former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Last year’s Pride event evolved into a major anti-government demonstration after authorities attempted to ban it, drawing tens of thousands of participants.

This year’s march has been officially authorized following the election victory of Prime Minister Peter Magyar’s centre-right Tisza party. While organisers welcomed the lifting of restrictions, they stressed that significant work remains to reverse policies introduced under the previous government, including limits on gender recognition, same-sex adoption and LGBTQ+-related educational materials.

Activists say the impact of those measures continues to affect the community. Many are urging the new government to address past legislation and strengthen protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Although Magyar has called for patience regarding legal reforms, he has publicly criticised attempts to restrict public assembly and argued that the state should not interfere in citizens’ private lives.

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Berlusconi Family Sells Iconic Sardinian Villa to Qatari Buyer

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The heirs of former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi have agreed to sell Villa Certosa, his famous luxury estate in Sardinia, to a company linked to Qatar’s ruling family. According to local media reports, the property was sold for around €350 million, with the buyer identified as Constellation Hotels Holding Ltd, associated with Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Villa Certosa was one of Berlusconi’s most recognizable residences and became a symbol of his lavish lifestyle. Located on Sardinia’s exclusive Costa Smeralda coastline, the sprawling estate spans roughly 120 hectares and features numerous villas, swimming pools, an amphitheatre, extensive gardens, a mock volcano and a private underground grotto designed for discreet boat access.

The property frequently hosted world leaders, celebrities and business figures during Berlusconi’s time in office and beyond. The sale is part of a broader effort by Berlusconi’s five children to streamline and manage the vast assets inherited following his death in 2023, ending an era for one of Italy’s most famous private estates.

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Technical Glitch Halts Germany’s Rail Network Nationwide

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Germany’s national rail operator, Deutsche Bahn, said a scheduled technical update caused a major disruption in its digital railway radio system, bringing train services across the country to a temporary standstill. The outage affected long-distance, regional and some local transport services, making it one of the most significant rail disruptions in recent years.

According to Deutsche Bahn, the issue originated during the replacement of a technical component in the GSM-R communication system, which is used to connect train drivers with traffic control centres. Train operations were suspended for around two hours on Tuesday before services gradually resumed overnight and into Wednesday.

Authorities stated there is currently no evidence of sabotage or external interference. The incident comes amid growing concerns about the vulnerability of Germany’s critical infrastructure and adds to ongoing criticism of Deutsche Bahn over delays, cancellations and aging infrastructure. The company said investigations into the exact cause are continuing while rail services have largely returned to normal.

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VPN IBE Awards 2026 Recognizes Excellence Beyond Boundaries

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The prestigious Manappuram VPN IBE Awards 2026 was held on June 23, 2026, at the Gokulam Park Hotel & Convention Centre, Kochi, honouring distinguished personalities who have made remarkable contributions to business, technology, retail, innovation, and cinema. The awards were presented by Shri V. P. Nandakumar, Chairman & Managing Director of Manappuram Finance Ltd., and Dr. Ajit Ravi, Chairman of Pegasus. Hosted by Dr. Ajit Ravi, the event celebrated individuals whose achievements have inspired excellence and created a lasting impact on society.

Among the distinguished awardees, Dr. Jehangir, Chairman & Managing Director of NeST Group of Companies, received the Global Technology Leadership Award in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the global technology sector. As Dr. Jehangir was unable to attend the ceremony, the award was received on his behalf by Shri Sajan David, President, New Initiatives, who represented him at the event. Shri Gopu Nandilath, Chairman & Managing Director of Gopu Nandilath Group, was honoured with the Retail Industry Icon Award in recognition of his pioneering leadership in the retail industry. Dr. Viju Jacob, Executive Chairman of Synthite Industries Limited, was conferred with the Global Business Excellence and Innovation Award for his outstanding achievements in business growth and innovation.

Adding further prestige to the ceremony, Padma Shri Balachandra Menon, renowned Indian film director, actor, and screenwriter, was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his invaluable contributions to Indian cinema. The event concluded on a high note with the awardees receiving warm applause from an audience comprising business leaders, dignitaries, and distinguished guests. The VPN IBE Awards once again reaffirmed its stature as a platform that recognizes visionary leadership, innovation, and lifelong excellence across diverse fields.

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Teen Glam World 2026: Shrika Satheeshan from UAE Claims the Crown

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Shrika Satheeshan from the UAE has been crowned SAJ Group Hotels & Resorts and DQ Watches Teen Glam World 2026, with Alona Angel James from India as the first runner-up, Sarah Vanderdonckt from France as the second runner-up and Kapshik Kira from Russia as the third runner-up. The highly anticipated pageant, featuring talented contestants aged 13 to 18 from across the globe, culminated on 23rd June at the Gokulam Park Hotel & Convention Centre, Kochi. Organized by Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd under the visionary leadership of Dr. Ajit Ravi, the event set new standards in celebrating youth, talent, and individuality.

Reigning queen Bellefontaine Marie, along with Sajan Varghese, CMD of SAJ Group of Hotels & Resorts, crowned the winner of the title. Preethi Parakkat, Managing Director of Parakkat Jewels, crowned the First Runner-Up. The Second Runner-Up was crowned by Vijayakumar, Chairman of Aiswaria Advertising, and Deepthi Vijayakumar, Managing Director of Aiswaria Advertising. Dr. Jolly Antony, Chairman of Vibe Munnar Resort & Spa and Managing Director of Fogg Resort, and Dr. Ajit Ravi, Chairman of Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd crowned the Third Runner-Up. The coronation ceremony was held in the presence of Dr. Ajit Ravi, Chairman of Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd.

The judging panel for Teen Glam World 2026 included Ashwaria Ullas (First Runner-Up, Miss Glam Universe 2025; Second Runner-Up, Miss Asia Global 2025; First Runner-Up, Miss Queen Kerala 2025), Rita Mathan (Owner, Pro Nail Studio), Alina Farkhutdinova (Miss Glam World 2025), Maeva Balan (Model) and Ambika S Nair (Actress) all of whom brought their expertise to evaluate the contestants. Breaking away from traditional pageantry norms, Pegasus prioritizes talent and personality over conventional practices, focusing on empowering young individuals and fostering confidence.

Subtitle Winner

Teen Glam World National Costume – France (Sarah Vanderdonckt)

Teen Glam World Talent – UAE (Shrika Satheeshan)

Teen Glam World Ramp Walk – Russia (Kapshik Kira)

SAJ Group Hotels and Resorts and DQ Watches are the main partners of Miss Glam World 2026 organized by Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd. Unique Times, Alcazar Watches, Parakkat Resorts, Vibe Munnar, and Green Media are powered by Partners.

Co-partners are DQUE Soap, Aiswaria Outdoor Media, Europe Times, UT World, Times New, uniquetimes.org, Vikas VKS Make-Up Artist, Gokulam Park Hotel & Convention Centre, VPS Lakeshore Hospital, JD Institute of Fashion Technology, Akshay Inco, and VKS Beauty and Bridal Lounge.

The event showcased Pegasus’ unparalleled commitment to innovation and quality, with its mission to promote cultural diversity and tourism while creating an empowering platform for young talent. Teen Glam World 2026 left a lasting impression with its grandeur, purpose, and celebration of youthful excellence.

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