Welcome to The Morning Scoop, your quick and easy roundup of the biggest stories making headlines around the world. Whether you’re just starting your morning or catching up later in the day, here’s everything you need to know in one place.

Trump Offers Support After Deadly Earthquakes Hit Venezuela

President Donald Trump has expressed condolences and pledged U.S. assistance after two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela, leaving at least 32 people dead and hundreds injured.

In a statement released overnight, Trump described the initial reports as deeply troubling, saying the twin earthquakes had resulted in a devastating loss of life. He added that the United States stands ready to help with rescue operations, humanitarian relief, and long-term recovery efforts.

The earthquakes, registering magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, caused extensive destruction across several parts of the country. Numerous buildings collapsed in Caracas, while emergency crews continue searching through damaged neighborhoods for survivors. Officials fear the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue. U.S. authorities have already begun preparing disaster-response teams and emergency aid as international support starts arriving in Venezuela.

Lionel Richie Ends Concert Early After Feeling Unwell

Concertgoers in Minnesota were left worried after legendary singer Lionel Richie was forced to end his performance unexpectedly due to health concerns.

The 77-year-old music icon reportedly began feeling dizzy while performing his classic hit Dancing on the Ceiling. After briefly sitting down on stage, Richie announced an unscheduled break. Unfortunately, he never returned to finish the concert.

A member of his team later informed the audience that the singer was not well enough to continue the show. Fans have since shared messages of support and wished him a speedy recovery.

Bill Gates Discusses Past Affairs During Congressional Testimony

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates reportedly identified three women with whom he had extramarital relationships while giving testimony during a closed-door congressional investigation connected to Jeffrey Epstein.

According to reports, Gates named Russian bridge player Mila Antonova, nuclear physicist Karima Nigmatulina, and medical entrepreneur Alice Jacobs Nesselrodt while answering questions about Epstein’s alleged efforts to gain influence over him.

During the testimony, Gates said Epstein became aware of the relationships and may have viewed the information as potential leverage to persuade him to reconnect. However, Gates maintained that no blackmail ever occurred.

Texas Education Policy Sparks Debate Over Biblical Content in Schools

A newly approved education policy in Texas has ignited fresh debate over the role of religion in public education.

The changes increase the use of Biblical material in classrooms, prompting criticism from those who argue the measures weaken the separation of church and state. Supporters, however, say the Bible remains an important historical and literary work that students should study as part of their education.

The latest decision follows several recent efforts in Texas to expand religion-related instruction in public schools, including the introduction of Bible-based curriculum materials and legislation requiring the Ten Commandments to be displayed in classrooms.

Joe Manganiello Opens Up About Years-Long Health Ordeal

Actor Joe Manganiello has revealed that he quietly battled a serious health crisis for seven years before finally finding relief.

According to the actor, he suffered from a series of autoimmune-related conditions that affected multiple parts of his body, including his skin, thyroid, lungs, eyes, and digestive system. The prolonged illness led to chronic pain, numerous medical procedures, and ultimately the removal of an organ in a life-saving operation.

Manganiello said he consulted some of the country’s leading medical specialists throughout the ordeal but spent years searching for clear answers about the cause of his condition. He has now chosen to share his experience in hopes of raising awareness about the challenges many people face when living with complex, difficult-to-diagnose illnesses.