Neural Newscast

This is NNC, Neural Newscast.

All the day's news and information you need to know starts now.

From our digital news hub, this is Andrew Lindbeck.

It's May 24th, 2025.

On this day in 1844, Samuel Morse famously demonstrated the telegraph

by sending the message, What hath God wrought,

from Washington, D.C. to Baltimore,

revolutionizing long-distance communication,

and paving the way from modern telecommunications.

Turning to breaking news.

Music.

John Wowelts, a 37-year-old crypto investor, was arrested Friday after a man escaped from a downtown Manhattan townhouse where he had been held captive and tortured for weeks.

NNC's Sarah Wheaton reports.

Authorities allege woke-outs kidnapped and assaulted the victim in a prolonged ordeal.

The victim's escape prompted a swift police response, leading to Wolkaltz's immediate arrest.

This shocking case raises urgent questions about criminal activity within the cryptocurrency community,

and ongoing investigations are underway.

A 15-year-old has been arrested following the death of a teenage boy at a local funfair.

The victim, whose identity has now been released, died after experiencing a medical episode on site.

Authorities are treating the incident with urgency, as investigations continue to determine the exact circumstances leading to the tragic event.

Police urge anyone with information to come forward immediately.

A cryptocurrency investor faces serious charges after allegedly kidnapping an Italian tourist

and subjecting him to two weeks of brutal torture in a luxury New York City townhouse.

Authorities report the victim was subjected to extreme violence, including use of a taser and chainsaw.

The disturbing case is under active investigation, raising urgent questions about safety and criminal behavior within the city's high-end residential spaces.

18 people were injured in a stabbing attack during Friday's evening rush hour in Hamburg, Germany.

Authorities confirm all victims are now in stable condition.

Police state the violence is not believed to be politically motivated and are continuing their investigation.

Commuters are urged to remain vigilant, as officials work to ensure public safety following this shocking incident.

A retired FBI expert warns the recent New Orleans jail escape, where 10 inmates fled on May 16th,

highlights a severe staffing shortage and systemic failures.

This incident demands urgent attention to prison security and resource allocation

to prevent further breaches and protect public safety.

This is Sarah Wheaton, NNC.

Turning to World News.

Russia and Ukraine have completed a second day of a major prisoner exchange, swapping hundreds

more detainees. NNC's Monica Kellan reports.

This follows an agreement reached last week in Istanbul, where both sides committed to exchanging

1,000 prisoners each. The announcement came shortly after Kiev experienced a large-scale

Russian drone and missile attack, injuring at least 15 people, according to local officials.

The exchanges mark a significant, albeit tense, development amid ongoing conflict between the two nations.

Simon Mann, a former British Army officer and mercenary known for his involvement and attempted military coups in Africa, has died at 72.

Educated at Eaton, Mann described himself as the go-to guy for military coups, navigating the high stakes and risks of his controversial career.

His actions left a complex legacy in the regions where he operated, reflecting the turbulent nature of mercenary involvement in African politics.

A Ugandan activist has alleged she was raped while detained in Tanzania.

Tanzanian authorities have not commented on the allegations, which also include claims of sexual assault.

The situation has drawn concern from human rights groups calling for a thorough investigation.

As the case unfolds, officials remain silent, and the activist claims highlight ongoing issues related to detainee treatment in the region.

Ukraine and Russia have completed their largest prisoner exchange since the conflict began in February

2022. The swap follows recent talks held in Istanbul, marking a significant moment amid ongoing

hostilities. Both sides exchanged dozens of detainees, signaling a rare instance of cooperation

in the prolonged war. The prisoner exchange offers a glimpse of possible dialogue, despite

continued tensions between the two nations.

Before recent conflicts, Gaza's hotels offered a glimpse of normalcy and hope.

Following Donald Trump's proposal to transform Gaza into the Riviera of the Middle East,

CNN spoke with two hoteliers who shared memories of life before the war

and expressed cautious optimism for the region's future.

For Neural Newscast, I'm Monica Kellyn.

Now, for the latest on the political front.

This week, President Donald Trump engaged in high-profile diplomacy.

speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin about potential steps to end the conflict in Ukraine.

Here's Cassandra Joyce with more.

He also hosted South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at the White House,

discussing bilateral relations amid ongoing challenges in the region.

Additionally, Trump threatened to impose higher tariffs on the European Union,

a move reflecting concerns over trade imbalances but sparking debate among economists and policymakers

about its potential impact on global markets.

These actions illustrate key facets of the administration's evolving foreign and trade policies.

You are listening to NNC, Neural Newscast.

Subscribe and listen wherever you choose,

and be sure to listen to our archive for more content like this episode.

Publishdaily at NNewscast.com.

The Department of Justice has announced it will end its use of police reform agreements

and pause investigations into local police departments.

Supporters argue this move restores local control and reduces federal overreach,

while critics contend it may slow progress on addressing systemic policing issues.

This decision reflects ongoing debates about the balance between federal oversight

and community autonomy and law enforcement reform efforts.

A video shared by former President Trump claiming to show a burial site for white South African farmers

has been widely debunked.

The clip reignited painful memories for the family of a victim, whose son told NPR it reopened

new wounds.

The issue highlights ongoing debates about land reform and violence in South Africa, with Trump's

portrayal reflecting one perspective amid broader discussions on race, property rights, and political

narratives.

NNC News.

I'm Cassandra Joyce.

Now for the latest in Entertainment News.

A massive power outage swept through southern France, throwing a wrench into the final day of the Cannes Film Festival.

NNC's Lydia Holmes reports.

Screenings were temporarily halted, leaving filmmakers and fans in suspense as the blackout affected thousands of households.

Despite the unexpected darkness, festival organizers quickly worked to restore power and get the show back on the road.

The dramatic interruption added an unexpected twist to can grand finale.

proving even the biggest stars can't escape a little electricity drama.

Lydia Holmes and NC News.

With economic uncertainty affecting summer plans,

the travel industry is seeing a slowdown

as many opt for shorter, more affordable trips.

Travel experts advise using loyalty points now to maximize value before potential changes or expirations.

CNN's Natasha Chen reports that those who delayed booking summer travel might find rewards programs a helpful way to secure deals amid shifting travel trends.

Japan's chief tariffs negotiator has stated there is no urgency to finalize a trade agreement with the United States.

The comments suggest Tokyo is taking a measured approach amid ongoing discussions,

prioritizing careful negotiation over speed.

Both countries continue to work toward resolving tariff issues,

but Japan emphasizes the importance of reaching a balanced and sustainable deal

rather than rushing the process.

Ethan Wells, Neuro-Newscast.

Pink Suskrad and District have joined forces to accelerate the adoption of quantum technology across Canada.

This partnership aims to boost innovation and collaboration within the country's quantum computing sector,

making advanced quantum solutions more accessible to businesses and researchers.

Together, they plan to drive Canada's leadership in the rapidly evolving field of quantum technology,

unlocking new possibilities for industries nationwide.

Stay tuned for more quantum breakthroughs.

This is Kara Swift for Neural Newscast.

James Middleton has opened up about his mental health struggles, revealing how his sister

Catherine, Princess Kate, and sister Pippa Middleton supported him during his darkest moments.

He shared that both have stood by him and helped him through his crisis, providing comfort

and understanding when he needed it most.

Their support highlights the importance of family in facing mental health challenges.

For Neural Newscast, I'm Laura Navarro.

a new technology is transforming how countries combat deforestation by providing real-time monitoring and early warning systems this innovation enhances the ability to detect illegal logging and forest loss promptly improving the chances of taking preventive action

By enabling faster responses, it supports global efforts to protect forests and combat climate change more effectively.

The technology marks a significant step forward in environmental conservation strategies worldwide.

NNC News, I'm Samuel Green.

FIFA President Johnny Infantino has revealed ongoing discussions about Cristiano Ronaldo potentially playing in the Club World Cup,

even though his current club has not qualified for the tournament.

Details remain unclear, but the possibility highlights the global interest in featuring top players in the competition.

Further updates are expected. This is Thomas Golding and NC.

I'm Andrew Lindbeck, Neural Newscast.

Neural Newscast blends real and AI-generated voices for fast, high-quality production.

All content is AI generated with human oversight, including fact-checking and review.

While we aim for accuracy and neutrality, errors may occur.

Verify critical details from trusted sources.

Learn more at NNewscast.com.

You've been listening to Neural Newscast, where history and curiosity collide.

Dive deeper at NNewscast.com.