California: A US Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bomber has crashed during a routine test flight in California, resulting in the deaths of all eight individuals on board. The aircraft took off from Edwards Air Force Base at 11:20 a.m. PDT (1820GMT) for a test mission when it went down shortly thereafter.

According to Anadolu Agency, military officials have confirmed that there was no opportunity for recovery of the passengers and crew following the impact. The crash has prompted an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident, as families and colleagues mourn the loss of those involved.

In other developments, the United Kingdom has enacted a ban on social media access for those under the age of 16. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared the decision as a necessary measure, emphasizing the importance of making the right choice for the nation's youth.

Meanwhile, the European Union has introduced a new set of sanctions against Russia, targeting the country's 'shadow fleet,' energy revenues, and military-industrial complex. The EU Council's statement revealed that the measures are directed at 34 individuals and 47 entities, intensifying pressure on Moscow over its actions in Ukraine.