DR Congo Ebola death toll tops 500 amid rapid spread

The Democratic Republic of Congo is grappling with a deadly Ebola outbreak, as the death toll has now exceeded 500. Health authorities report 1,561 confirmed cases since the outbreak began in mid-May. The rapid spread of the rare Bundibugyo variant is proving difficult to control, with no approved treatments or vaccines available.

This health crisis unfolds against a backdrop of other global news. In Ukraine, at least 14 people died following a significant Russian missile attack on the capital, Kyiv, overnight. Meanwhile, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte highlighted that European allies and Canada are increasing their defense spending, with a collective four percent of GDP allocated to defense. Rutte expressed optimism about the allies' commitment to reaching a five percent target.