Simple English News Daily Wednesday 4th February 2026. Spain social media ban. Italy Trevi charge. Ukraine Russian bombs. Japan snow. Syria change. Grok no change...
Feb 3, 2026
Plans to ban social media for under-16s and hold executives accountable. Tourists now pay to get close to Rome’s Trevi Fountain. Large Russian strikes damage Ukrainian energy infrastructure amid extreme cold. Soldiers help clear record snowfall in Japan. Syrian government reclaims northeast territory. US carrier downs an Iranian drone. Reports of Grok producing unauthorized deepfakes.
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Spain Plans Strong Under-16 Social Media Ban
- Spain will ban social media access for under-16s and require effective age verification systems on platforms.
- Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez framed this as protecting children from a “digital wild west” of harm and manipulation.
Mandelson Resigns Amid Epstein Probe
- Peter Mandelson resigned from the House of Lords while under police investigation for allegedly sharing government information with Jeffrey Epstein.
- The investigation and resignation highlight renewed scrutiny of past political contacts with Epstein.
Trevi Fountain Access Now Costs Tourists
- Rome now charges tourists two euros to approach the Trevi Fountain while residents are exempt.
- City tourism officials argue fees help manage crowds and preserve the landmark amid heavy tourist demand.